Actor Enchong Dee recently revealed that he had previously experienced trauma severe enough to consider seeking professional help.
This personal admission came during a media interview following the grand launch of his Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry, ‘Topakk’.
In ‘Topakk’, Dee takes on the role of a scout ranger who triggers post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the lead character Miguel, played by Arjo Atayde. Reflecting on the film’s themes, Dee admitted to relating to the portrayal of PTSD due to his own experiences.
“There was a time when I was in the process of looking for a personal therapist, but I didn’t reach that point,” Dee shared.
When pressed for details, the actor avoided specifics, saying, “Mga pangamba sa buhay. Alam n’yo na ‘yan.” He expressed gratitude to those around him for their support, adding, “I’m happy that people around me were very respectful. When I needed time, they gave me time.”
Drawing from his role in ‘Topakk’, Dee highlighted the importance of understanding mental health challenges like PTSD and approaching them with care.
“That there’s a proper briefing, there’s a process. Mayroon tayong mga panibagong instrumento para ma-debrief ang emotions, alam mo yun, ang pinagdadaanan ng isang tao. Gamitin natin yun kasi hindi natin alam kung… Physical nakikita natin, pero kapag mental health, hindi natin nakikita. I think, let’s use that tool kung kinakailangan,” he explained.
Dee emphasized the importance of staying connected with loved ones, saying, “It’s important to check on our friends and family.”
Dee also expressed excitement about ‘Topakk’, which he described as his first action-packed role.
“I think, ha. Kasi, sabi ko nga, hindi ko nakita yung sarili ko na naging maangas sa lahat ng projects na ginawa ko, except for this one. Sabi ko nga kay Direk Richard [Somes], ‘Thank you, ha, ginawa mo akong sobrang angas.’ So, I’m very grateful that I’m part of this project,” he said.
The actor concluded with a heartfelt message about his commitment to his craft.
“Sana makita ng audience, makita ninyo, na kapag binigyan ng trabaho si Enchong, gagawin niya. Yun ang gusto kong maihatid na mensahe because I’m ready to work and I love to work,” he said.
‘Topakk’ is set to premiere during the MMFF, and Dee hopes his performance resonates with audiences while shedding light on the importance of mental health awareness.
