FWD Philippines unveils new mental health program

FWD Philippines unveils new mental health program | Insurance Business Asia

Life & Health

FWD Philippines unveils new mental health program

Initiative launched amid increasing demand for mental health support in the country

Life & Health

By
Roxanne Libatique

FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines) has introduced a new initiative, the Mind Strength Support Program, aimed at addressing the increasing demand for mental health support in the Philippines.

The program launch aligns with Self-Care Awareness Month in September and National Mental Health Month in October.

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FWD Philippines Mind Strength Support Program

The Mind Strength Support Program provides a holistic approach, focusing on mental, emotional, and financial wellbeing. It includes a free online Mind Strength Assessment, which offers insights into an individual’s mental health status.

Additionally, the program features a customizable insurance plan called The One for mental wellbeing, which comes with access to the mental wellness app, ThoughtFull Mindfulness.

Financial literacy resources are also part of the initiative, helping users manage their overall wellbeing.

Young Filipinos prioritise mental health

Commenting on the initiative, Roche Vandenberghe, chief marketing and digital business officer of FWD Philippines, noted that many young Filipinos are beginning to prioritise their mental health, and it is crucial to provide resources that support this shift.

“With more young Filipinos learning to prioritise their wellness, it is important that we recognise the often-overlooked challenges related to mental health,” she said.

She emphasised the need to increase awareness and make mental health resources more accessible to help individuals manage their personal challenges, either with professional assistance or through self-care.

Mind Strength Assessment

The Mind Strength Assessment is a quick online test that provides users with a score reflecting their mental health status.

After completing the test, users are given 30 days of free access to the ThoughtFullChat app, which connects them with mental health experts for confidential, text-based coaching in their preferred language.

FWD Philippines financial literacy

In addition to mental health support, FWD Philippines is offering financial literacy resources and mindfulness tools that help users improve their mental and financial health.

The One for mental wellbeing, the company’s new life insurance plan, includes customisable coverage options for accidental death and critical illnesses that are linked to mental health conditions, such as cerebral aneurysm, chronic lung disease, and cancer. Policyholders also receive a one-year subscription to the ThoughtFullChat app, providing them with ongoing mental health support.

Vandenberghe said the group was committed to providing services that address mental health needs and to offering financial protection.

“As the insurer of the next generation, we are committed to offering innovative services that champion the next generation of Filipinos and their mental health, while providing financial security as they build their best future and celebrate living,” she said.

FWD’s 2023 survey showed that 63% of Filipinos view mental health as a top priority, particularly in the face of ongoing economic challenges. With over 3.6 million Filipinos affected by mental, neurological, and substance use disorders, according to the Department of Health, the need for mental health resources has become critical.

Filipinos can access the Mind Strength assessment online for free and can purchase The One for mental wellbeing insurance plan through the FWD Online Shop, which does not require a medical exam.

FWD Philippines customer feedback panel

Meanwhile, as part of its efforts to improve customer experience, FWD Philippines has introduced the FWD Champions panel, a new initiative that invites clients to provide direct feedback on the company’s products and services.

The FWD Champions panel allows customers to share their insights and preferences, providing FWD with valuable input to help refine its products and customer service strategies.

According to Judith Baliton, chief life operations officer of FWD Philippines, the initiative is designed to help the company rethink how it delivers value and improves its customer experience.