The Impact of Mental Health Problems on the

Physical Health of Senior High School

(11-HUMSS)

Aljana T. Magalib
Stephanie M. Castillo
Marniel N. Solomon

IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENT

IN PRACTICAL RESEARCH 1

A Research submitted to Lamba National High School

2023
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We give honor and heart full of thanksgiving to Almighty God, for the privilege of
being able to embark upon this journey. This project could not have been done without
the contributions and support from so many people. First, we give thanks and
appreciation to our Practical Research 1 adviser, Francis Joy Miras, for her constant
guidance, feedback, and editing throughout the project. Additionally, we—the
researchers, would like to to extend our gratitude to one another for continuously
pushing, encouraging growth, and for the dedicated time to spend on this project.
Lastly, we would like to thank our research participants for allowing us to be a witness to
your incredible stories.
 Chapter I
INTRODUCTION

This chapter of the paper presents the problem and its setting. It includes the
background of the study, statement of the problem, significance of the study, and scope
and delimitation of the study.

Background of the Study

Mental health problems are becoming increasingly common among senior high
school students. The pressures of academic and social life can take a toll on their
mental well-being, leading to a range of mental health issues such as anxiety,
depression, stress, and others. These mental health problems not only affect the
student’s emotional and psychological well-being but also their physical health. Mental
health and physical health are deeply interconnected, and this is particularly true for
senior high school students. The pressure of the academic demands, social
expectations, and transitioning into adulthood can take a toll on their mental well-being.
Poor mental health can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension
and fatigue, and can also increase the risk of chronic health such as cardiovascular
disease, diabetes, and obesity. Moreover, mental health problems can interfere with
healthy behaviors such as exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep, further
exacerbating physical health problems.

Mental health issues can wreak havoc on an individual’s overall welfare,

impacting even their bodily health. Senior High School(SHS) students are especially
vulnerable to psychological issues because of the many stressors and demands placed
upon them during this period of growth.

Concerns are on the rise regarding mental health issues among high school
seniors, as this is a crucial stage in their growth. Stressful and daunting experiences
can often lead to poor mental well-being, which could have an adverse impact on
physical health. To better understand this correlation between mental and physical
health for senior high school students in the Philippines, this research endeavors to
ascertain the effects of mental health problems on physical health outcomes.
Additionally, it will consider how health behaviors, social support, and academic
performance may mediate this relationship.

Mental health is deeply connected to physical health, and they both contribute to
our overall sense of well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) has defined
health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, not just the lack of
disease or infirmity”. This puts into perspective of how important it is to maintain both
mental and physical health for overall well-being.

This study aims to investigate the impact of mental health issues on the physical
health of senior high school students. Specifically, we will look at the frequency of
mental health disorders among senior high school students, how mental health and
physical health are related, and what processes might be behind this relationship. This
research is critical because it will elucidate both the positive and negative impacts of
mental health problems on physical health among high school seniors.
Statement of the Problem

This study generally aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the

impact of mental health problems on the physical health of senior high school students.

Specifically, this study sought to answer the following questions:

1. What are the impact of mental health problems on the physical health among
senior high school students?
2. What are the factors for developing mental health problems among senior high
school students?
3. How does mental health problems disturbance among the physical health of
senior high school students?
4. What are the potential interventions to promote mental and physical health
among senior high school students?

Scope and Limitation

This research will focus on the impact of mental health problems on the physical
health of grade 11-HUMSS in Lamba National High School. The study will specifically
look into the impact of mental health problems among 11-HUMMSS students, the
factors for developing mental health problems, the disturbance of mental health
problems among the physical health, and the potential interventions to promote mental
and physical health.

The study will be limited to senior high school students in selected strand in the
Lamba National High School.

Definition of Terms

 Intervention – refers to any action or strategy aimed at preventing, treating, or

managing a particular condition or disease.
 Mental Health Problems – refers to a range of psychological disorders and
conditions that affect a person’s emotional, cognitive, and behavioral functioning.
Examples of mental health problems include anxiety, depression, and stress.
 Physical Health – refers to a person’s overall physical well-being, which
includes physical fitness, nutrition, and the absence of physical illnesses or
conditions.
 Lamba National High School – is a school located in Banga, listed under local
business in Banga.
 Well-being – refers to a person’s overall state of happiness, satisfaction, and
fulfillment in life, which includes physical, emotional, and social aspects of health.
 Chapter II

Review of Related Literature and Studies

This chapter presents the related literature and studies after the thorough and in-
depth search done by the researchers. This will also present the synthesis of the art,
theoretical and conceptual framework to fully understand the researcher to be done and
lastly the definition of terms for better comprehension of the study.

Related Literature

Mental Health

Mental health is a crucial aspect of one’s overall well-being, affecting both the
individual and the community they belong to. It encompasses a broad range of
conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. The World Health Organization
defines mental health as “a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own
abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully,
and is able to make a contribution to their community.” Studies suggests that mental
health problems are a significant global health burden, affecting millions of people
worldwide. According to Knapp and Wong's (2020) study, mental health and the
economy have a two-way relationship. The decline of the economy may increase the
chances of mental illness due to exposure to various risk factors such as poverty, social
exclusion, poor education, unemployment, and treatment costs. Additionally, mental
health issues may significantly reduce economic activity due to productivity losses and
limited resources for treatment. Therefore, the study of economics, particularly mental
health economics (MHE), plays a crucial role in identifying strategies to enhance mental
health and the production and consumption of mental healthcare. Mental health
conditions can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life, leading to
impaired social functioning, decreased productivity, and increased morbidity and
mortality. Therefore, early detection and intervention are crucial in managing mental
health conditions.
 Mental health issues can drastically impact physical health, particularly for teens
in high school. According to Lim et al. (2018), research found that anxiety and
depression can lead to physical ailments including headaches, stomach discomfort, and
tiredness. The National Institute of Mental Health’s (2019) findings even suggest that
mental health issues are linked to an increased likelihood of developing chronic
illnesses like heart disease and diabetes.

A study by Liu et al. (2019) found that students who reported high levels of stress
and anxiety had significantly higher rates of obesity and overweight compared to those
with lower levels of stress and anxiety. This is supported by a review of literature by
Wang et al. (2018), which found that psychological stress can lead to an unhealthy
lifestyle, including poor diet and lack of physical activity, which in turn can lead to
physical health problems.

Local Studies

A study conducted by the University of the Philippines Manila titled “Mental Health
Problems and its Correlation to Physical Health among Senior High School Students”
discovered that mental health difficulties have a distinct influence on the physical
wellbeing of senior high school students. The findings showed that students who had
issues with anxiety, depression, and stress reported physical symptoms such as
headaches, stomachaches, and body pains. This implies that there is a strong link
between mental health issues and physical health concerns among senior high school
students. Similarly to the study conducted by Amores et al. (2019) in the Philippines
found that high school students who experienced depression, anxiety, and stress had a
higher likelihood of developing physical health problems, such as headache,
stomachache, and fatigue.

The Department of Health in the Philippines conducted a study titled “The

Prevalence of Mental Health Problems among Senior High School Students in Metro
Manila”, which revealed that 20% of senior high school students in Metro Manila suffer
from mental health issues. Additionally, those students experiencing such problems
usually have irregular sleeping patterns, lack of appetite, and insufficient physical
activity, thus potentially leading to various physical health issues.
 In conclusion, mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, affecting not
only individuals but also communities. Mental health issues can lead to physical health
problems, especially among students in high school. Anxiety and stress can cause
physical ailments, including headaches, stomach discomfort, and tiredness, which may
eventually lead to chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. Psychological
stress can also lead to unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as poor diet and lack of
exercise, which can exacerbate physical health problems. Finally, students with mental
health problems are more likely to engage in hazardous health practices, such as
substance abuse and risky sexual activity, which can further harm their physical and
mental well-being. Therefore, early detection and intervention are crucial in managing
mental health conditions, particularly among students in high school, to promote healthy
lifestyles and prevent the development of chronic illnesses.

Firstly, all of the studies emphasize that mental health is a crucial aspect of
overall well-being, affecting not only individuals but also communities. Mental health
problems are a significant global health burden that affects millions of people worldwide,
and early detection and intervention are essential for managing mental health
conditions. Secondly, the studies show that mental health issues can significantly
impact physical health, particularly for teens in high school. Anxiety, depression, stress,
and other mental health conditions can lead to physical ailments, including headaches,
stomach discomfort, and tiredness, which can eventually lead to chronic illnesses like
heart disease and diabetes. Thirdly, the studies suggest that psychological stress can
lead to an unhealthy lifestyle, including poor diet and lack of physical activity, which can
exacerbate physical health problems. Moreover, students with mental health problems
are more likely to engage in hazardous health practices, such as substance abuse and
risky sexual activity, which can further harm their physical and mental well-being.

Overall, these studies highlight the importance of addressing mental health

issues, particularly among students in high school, to promote healthy lifestyles, prevent
the development of chronic illnesses, and enhance individuals’ overall quality of life.
 Chapter III

Methodology

This chapter presents the methodology that will be used to undertake this study.
This includes the research design, participants of the study, locale of the study,
sampling technique, data gathering instrument, and data gathering procedure.

Research Design

The researcher will use the qualitative interview methodology as the study is
attempting to know the impact of mental health problems on the physical health of
students in 11-HUMSS.

Participants of the Study

The respondents of this study will consist (5-8) students in 11-HUMSS of the
Lamba National High School. The researchers believe that these participants would be
enough to provide sufficient and essential information to answer the question raised in
this study.

Locale of the Study

The researchers will conduct at Matlong, Lamba, Banga, South Cotabato,

specifically at Lamba National High School.
Sampling Technique

The researchers of this study will use purposive sampling, also known as
judgement, selective or subjective sampling, as essential step in qualitative research.
Also it is non-profitable sampling method. This type of sampling can be very useful in
situations when you need to reach a targeted subject sample quickly. In addition, they
define sampling schemes as specifics techniques that are utilized to select units (e.g.,
people, groups, subgroups, situations, events). Sampling design as represented their
framework within which the sampling occurs, comprising the numbers, types of
sampling schemes and the sample size. (Crossman, 2018)

The researchers select participants who meet specified qualifications as Lamba

National High School senior high students. This will be suitable for this will concretely
search for 11-HUMSS students who were experiencing mental health problems.

Data Gathering Instrument

To conduct this study, the researchers followed a protocol consisting of a written

questionnaire for one on one interview to obtain the data in this study. The researchers
will collect data from the respondents by making hand written notes, videos, and audio
recording. As presented in the interview process, the researchers will use a recording
gadget. The use of recording devices ensured that the data will be obtain from the
respondents. The time that researchers have completely done with the interviews, the
data that gather were transcribing into text.

The researchers will present the impact of mental health problems on the physical
health of senior high school students specifically the 11-HUMSS by which the
researchers and the respondents will join the structure analysis session to which they
will review the most common health problems that affects their physical health.

Data Gathering Procedure

In this study, the needed data will be gather using the following steps, the
researchers will discuss and review the collected audios, hand written, and videos to
validate the reliability of its outcomes. The researchers will compare and evaluate their
data that gathered from the different participants and sort the most valid concepts from
data that need further validation.

Therefore, the researchers will transcribe key words, phrases, statements,

interviews, documents and field notes in order to allow the voices of the research
participants to speak.

Discuss and review the collected audios,

text, and videos

Compare and evaluate the data

Sorting and verifying of data

Transcribe key words, phrases, statements

Interviews , documents, and field notes

Figure 1.0 The figure above represents the actual process by which the researchers will
undertake during the conduct of the study.

Chapter IV

Findings and Interpretations

This chapter contains detailed presentation and discussion of data analysis and
the results of this study. The researchers presents the findings and Interpretations.

Findings

This study deals with the title “The Impact of Mental Health Problems on the Physical
Health of Senior High School Students (11-HUMSS)”. This chapter represents an
overview of the findings during the data collection process, based on using a qualitative
interview method. The researchers developed an interview guide for the face-to-face
interviews. In an effort to gauge the experiences of the participants.

Responses to Qualified Participants

Interview Question 1: Have you experience any mental health problems in the
past years or lately? If yes, describe the mental health problem(s) you’ve
experience.

As a student, I had experience being stress in school and a lot of things lately. There’s
a thing that I would think too much and it stresses me even more. (Participant 1)

In the past few years, yes I had experience being stress in academic and over my family
problems. (Participant 2)

I feel a lot of things happening behind my back and it was because I have this thing
called anxiety. (Participant 3)

Yes, I was depressed when I was in grade eight. That time all of the academic
achievers in our section is placed in another section and I was so happy because I can
participate well after that, but one day, one of them came back and noticed me being
participative and told me that I was “pabibo” and “feeling bright”. After that Iost all my
confidences and I was depressed, really. I want to hurt someone that time but I didn’t.
(Participant 4)

I had stress lately. It was because of our thesis is simultaneous and it was hard to
remain calm because I don’t know what to do first. (Participant 5)

Based on the responses of the qualified students above, it showed that there were one
student (20%) that had anxiety, one student (29%) had depression, and three students
(60%) had stress.

Interview Question 2: How do mental health problem(s) affect your physical

health?

Stress have been affecting my physical health like suddenly, I constantly feel
headaches and sometimes I didn’t like to eat, I have lost my appetite and lately I was
always tired and weak. (Participant 1)

I don’t know but when I was feeling stress over something, I didn’t like to eat anything,
and I feel my body rejected what I was eating. (Participant 2)

Headaches is what I feel when I am anxious. I don’t know but I think it is because I was
always overthinking of something. (Participant 3)