Dear PAO,
I heard some rumors that the man I am dating has mental health issues. Since we work in the same company, I tried to ask a staff from our Human Resources (HR) Department if this is true or if he has submitted any document relating to his mental condition. But the said staff refused to provide me any information. Can she validly do that? I just want to get information in order for me to also gauge myself as to how prepared I am in pursuing a more serious relationship with this man.
Charry
Dear Charry,
A personâs mental health status or condition is not a public property that anyone can simply have access to. Generally, the person whose mental health status or condition is being questioned or inquired about must give consent as to any disclosure of his/her information, although certain exceptions are recognized under the law. Pursuant to Republic Act (RA) 11036, otherwise known as the âMental Health Actâ: