Qualitative research
Qualitative narrative inquiry
Semi-structured interview method
Purposive sampling

Includes bibliographical references

This narrative qualitative study sought to determine the lived experience, perceptions, and coping mechanisms of residents within a disadvantaged Filipino community with regards to mental health using the Pagdadala Model as the cultural framework. The semi-structured interview method was used to gain insight into the kinds of burdens that the participants endure, the types of identities that they develop due to their experiences, and the coping methods that they employ to help them remain healthy despite the financial hardships, socio-cultural pressures, lack of resources, and stressors within their community. The results of the study demonstrate that the mental health issues experienced by the participants stem from recurring and accumulative stresses rather than singular events but that the stories and lives that they live reveal moral resiliency and toughness through caregiving, responsibility, spirituality, and unity in the community. There were several concerns that were raised by the residents regarding the availability of professional mental health services. The need for more education about mental illnesses, counseling for children, guidance for parents, safe areas where people could speak openly about their experiences, and access to psychosocial services was noted. Finally, it can be concluded that there is a necessity for culturally relevant community-based mental health programs.