BY: VALERIE ANN DISMAYA

“Quality of life” refers to a person’s overall happiness and satisfaction in life.

It’s not just about physical health but also mental, emotional, and social well-being.

It includes one’s ability to achieve their dreams, be given equal opportunities, and enjoy a humane way of living.

Every January, we celebrate International Quality of Life Month, a reminder to value and improve our quality of life.

Why is it important?

The concept of “quality of life” started in the 20th century when experts in health, economics, and sociology began to focus on it.

Globally, it gained attention when international organizations like the World Health Organization emphasized it as a foundation for national development.

International Quality of Life Month was first celebrated in the 1980s, spearheaded by NGOs promoting mental health, social well-being, and physical health.

In the Philippines, awareness of this grew when the Department of Health (DOH) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) promoted the Human Development Index to measure the country’s progress.

According to 2020 Globocan data, 17 million Filipinos still live in poverty, are unemployed, or face health issues affecting their quality of life.

To improve quality of life, there should be affordable healthcare, mental health awareness, support systems, education, and jobs for all.

Government initiatives like the 4Ps, Universal Health Care Law, National Mental Health Program, and livelihood programs aim to address these issues.

However, a September 2024 SWS survey revealed that 38% of Filipinos felt no improvement in their lives, 37% reported better conditions, and 24% said their situation worsened.

Additionally, 59% of Filipinos still consider themselves poor, 28% say they are not, and 13% are on the borderline.

This International Quality of Life Month reminds us to care for ourselves, value others, and help those in need.

Remember to balance your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.