The Mapayapa project.

the purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore and compare the mental health perceptions and experiences of Filipinos in the Philippines with those of Filipinos living in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Through this research, we hope to bring more enlightenment to mental health perceptions and experiences among Filipinos and how we cope with our life struggles.

We hope that we bring you a better understanding of mental health and coping strategies so that you may eventually find peace in your life.

What is mental health?

Mental health is about how we think, feel, and connect with others. It’s a vital part of our overall well-being, affecting how we handle stress, make choices, and enjoy life.

It’s not just about avoiding mental illness; it’s about feeling balanced and finding joy in everyday moments. Our mental health is shaped by our experiences, relationships, and the world around us, making it something we all need to care for and nurture.

Why is this research important?

This research is important because it seeks to explore the mental health needs of Filipinos.

Mental health is a critical aspect of our overall well-being, yet it is often shaped by complex cultural, social, and environmental factors that vary widely between communities. Understanding these nuances is essential for developing effective mental health interventions that are culturally sensitive and responsive to the specific needs of Filipinos.

You may find more information on the conditions of this study on the Official Participant Information Sheet

(*This is required to read before proceeding to the surveys)

What are the Filipino values?

  • Kapwa is an acknowledgement of the 'shared identity' of Filipinos which signifies the importance of interconnectedness and interdependence in the Filipino culture.

    This core value revolves around the idea of sharing oneself with others.

  • Hiya refers to a sense of shame or embarrassment and the desire to avoid losing face.

    This core value revolves around the idea of avoiding bringing dishonor to themselves or their families.

  • Pakikisama refers to the interpersonal relationship of individuals, similar to the concept of Kapwa.

    This core value revolves around the concept of being considerate towards other people.

  • Utang na Loob refers to the deep sense of gratitude and indebtedness toward someone who has done a significant favour or act of kindness.

    This core value revolves around acknowledging and repaying the moral or emotional debt owed to others.

Disclaimer: These are the 4 main Filipino core values chosen for this study. Please note that the Filipino core values are not limited to just these four.

Frequently asked questions

  • The word 'Mapayapa' in Tagalog means 'peaceful'. The root of the word is 'Mapa' which in English translates to a map, representing journey or guide.

    We thought this name perfectly aligns with our vision of helping people find peace within themselves the best. This project aims to work just as a map does, we aim to help guide you along that winding path. So that even while facing challenges of daily living… one can find their own peace and serenity.

    Our wish is that you not only find peace but become it in your life.

  • Unfortunately, for this research study, we are currently only taking participants based in New Zealand and in the Philippines.

    This is for a Master's thesis so we currently, unfortunately, do not have the capacity to organize a large-scale global research just yet.

    However, we do hope sometime in the future we will be able to.

    Can't participate but have family/friends based in New Zealand or the Philippines?

    Please send this to them! :)

  • This research study is only available for participants living in the Philippines and New Zealand.

    If you are based in the Philippines, you can participate if you are:

    • 18 years old and above.

    • Currently residing in the Philippines

    • Filipino-descent

    • Fluent in Tagalog and/or English

    If you are based in New Zealand, you can participate if you are:

    • 18 years old and above

    • Currently residing in New Zealand for at least the past year.

    • Filipino-descent

    • Fluent in Tagalog and/or English

  • The questionnaires in this study were specifically designed and picked out to appropriately carry out the purpose of the study. If you have further questions or concerns on the surveys, please do not hesitate to reach out to us via email at info@themapayapaproject.com

  • We understand the sensitivity of this topic. All of the surveys are anonymous. Your answers will only be recorded for data collection purposes only.

    The only survey that is not anonymous is the raffle form that you fill out on a separate link once you have completed the anonymous surveys.

    Please be at peace that we have no way of tracking your survey answers, nor link those answers to your raffle-entry.

  • We hope to reassure you that this project is a low-level risk. We do not expect it to be extremely distressing for you.

    However, the surveys involve questions about mental health, and personal life experiences which might lead to some discomfort for some participants.

    You have the right to withdraw from the survey at any time if it makes you uncomfortable. 

    If you find yourself affected by the questions, please do not hesitate to reach out for help. We have provided links to different help hotlines and clinics, you can find this under our 'Help' section.

  • This is a non-profit student research project. This should only cost you approximately 15 -25 minutes of your time.

  • You may enter the raffle if you have completed the surveys. Once you have completed all of the surveys, you will be given a special link for the raffle.

  • A summary of the findings will be posted here on the website once this is available.

    You will have the option to sign up below, and at the end of the survey if you would like to personally receive a copy of the findings of this research.

  • As a token of gratitude for your time, you will be given an option to participate in a prize raffle for one of the following Prezzy gift cards.

     1 of 10 $50 NZD cash vouchers

     1 of 5 $100 NZD cash vouchers

    For participants based in the Philippines, this cash voucher will be converted directly to Philippine Peso and will be given in the form of GCash eGift card.

  • This research study is anonymous.

    We will not be collecting any information that could identify you apart from the optional entry to the raffle. We will also not conduct any form of follow-up with participants. The data will only be used for understanding personal experiences and perceptions of mental health and ways of coping of Filipinos in the Philippines and in New Zealand.

    If you choose to enter the raffle draw, you will need to provide your name and email address where we can contact you, if you ever get drawn as a prize winner. This will be entered in a separate form presented at the end of survey.