VP Aide Hospitalized After House Contempt Citation, Says Trauma Tied to House Detention
Vice President Sara Duterte’s chief of staff, Atty. Zuleika Lopez, has been admitted to the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) for acute stress disorder (ASD), blurring the lines between a political saga and a serious mental health crisis.
Lopez, who found herself at the center of a House of Representatives inquiry into alleged misuse of funds, was cited in contempt on November 20th. What followed was a harrowing sequence of events that experts suggest may be directly connected to her current health status.
Ordered detained and transferred from the House chamber’s detention facility, Lopez was reportedly forcibly removed from her cell by security officers and policemen. The ordeal, which culminated in a transfer to the Women’s Correctional Facility in Mandaluyong City, sent shockwaves through the attorney, who claimed in a press conference, "This is a threat to my life. It’s not harassment."
The VMMC confirmed Lopez’s hospitalization on November 27th, stating she is "under the care and close observation" of their medical team.
Understanding Acute Stress Disorder
Clinical psychologist Tito Mong Psychologist describes ASD as a mental health condition triggered by a traumatic event. Unlike typical stress, which is often a fleeting response to everyday pressures, ASD is an overwhelming reaction to an incident that leaves an individual feeling helpless, fearful, or out of control.
"Causes would usually include direct or indirect exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, violence, or sexual abuse," explains Psychologist.
Symptoms can manifest immediately after the traumatic event and may include intrusive experiences like flashbacks and nightmares,
avoidant behaviors, exaggerated arousal (irritability, sleep disturbances), negative mood, and dissociative experiences.
Dr. Zeia Beatriz Valencia emphasizes the "time-limited" nature of ASD, stating that symptoms typically disappear within a month. However, if symptoms persist beyond this timeframe, ASD can evolve into Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Treatment and Support
Treatment for ASD often involves a combination of approaches. Medications like benzodiazepines and sleep aids can help manage symptoms, while psychotherapy, particularly trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), plays a crucial role in processing the traumatic experience.
Dr. Christian Jasper Nicomedes, another clinical psychologist, stresses the importance of early intervention. "The more the individual faces their trauma, the better progress they can have," he says.
While ASD itself might not necessitate prolonged confinement, temporary hospitalization may be recommended in cases where symptoms are severe and the individual is unable to care for themselves or make safe decisions.
Moving Forward
The public outcry surrounding Lopez’s hospitalization highlights the need for understanding and support for individuals grappling with mental health challenges. Dr. Valencia encourages offering support to those in need by "being present, validating their feelings, and gently persuading them to seek professional help."
As Lopez navigates the challenging road to recovery, her story serves as a potent reminder of the profound impact trauma can have. It underscores the crucial importance of mental health awareness and access to appropriate care for all.
## “House Detention Took a Toll”: Aide’s Trauma Highlights Mental Health Consequences in Political Battles
**Expert Interview with Dr.Elena Reyes, Clinical Psychologist and Advocacy Director of the Philippine Mental Health Association**
**World-Today-News:** Dr. Reyes, thank you for joining us. The recent hospitalization of Vice President Sara Duterte’s chief of staff, atty. Zuleika Lopez, for acute stress disorder following the House contempt citation has brought into sharp focus the mental health toll of political battles. Can you shed light on the psychological impact of such situations?
**Dr. Reyes:** Certainly. Political environments, notably those involving high-profile investigations and public scrutiny, can be incredibly stressful. Individuals caught in these situations often face immense pressure, uncertainty, and potential damage to their reputation.
Atty. lopez’s case is particularly concerning because it highlights the psychological impact of not just the public scrutiny, but also the potential trauma associated with detention, even if temporary. The feeling of being trapped, interrogated, and stripped of agency can leave lasting psychological scars.
**World-Today-News:** How common is it for political figures and their staff to experience mental health issues due to the pressures of their roles?
**Dr. Reyes:** It’s more common than many realize. The demands of political life – the long hours,constant criticism,and high stakes – can contribute to chronic stress,anxiety,and even depression. While we often focus on the visible aspects of these roles, the psychological burden they carry is often overlooked.
**World-Today-News:** What are some of the specific symptoms someone might experience after being subjected to the kind of pressure and detention Atty. Lopez faced?
**Dr. Reyes:**
Acute stress disorder, like the one Atty. Lopez is reportedly experiencing, is a natural response to trauma.
Symptoms can include flashbacks, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, hypervigilance, emotional numbness, and difficulty concentrating.
Its crucial to seek professional help immediately following a traumatic event to prevent these symptoms from developing into more chronic conditions like PTSD.
What can political institutions do to better address the mental health needs of those involved in these high-pressure situations?
**Dr.Reyes:**
There needs to be a greater awareness and understanding of the psychological toll political life can take. Institutions must prioritize creating supportive environments that offer access to mental health resources and promote open conversations about well-being. This includes providing confidential counseling services, stress management programs, and fostering a culture that encourages seeking help without fear of stigma.
**World-today-News:** Do you believe Atty.Lopez’s case could be a catalyst for change regarding mental health awareness in Philippine politics?
**Dr. Reyes:** I certainly hope so. Her case brings to light a critical issue that often remains hidden. By acknowledging the human cost of political battles, we can start to build a system that prioritizes the well-being of everyone involved, nonetheless of their political affiliation.It’s time to move beyond the political rhetoric and recognise that mental health is a fundamental human right that deserves our attention and support.
