Kim Atienza accepts Catholic priest's apology over controversial depression remarks
Television host Kim Atienza has accepted a public apology from a Catholic priest who made controversial remarks comparing depression to physical illness. The exchange has sparked a broader, necessary conversation about the legitimacy of mental health conditions and the need for sensitivity in public discourse.
Why it matters
It highlights the ongoing struggle to destigmatize mental health issues and the role of public figures in shaping societal understanding of medical conditions.
Television host and mental health advocate Kim Atienza has accepted the public apology issued by Catholic priest Rev. Fr. Jowel Jomarsus P. Gatus following the backlash over the latter’s remarks about depression during a homily.
In a Facebook post, Atienza thanked the priest for acknowledging the concerns raised by many and said the apology has helped spark an important discussion about mental health.
“Thank you so much for the post and your apology. It is well taken. Your statement opened a conversation that is timely and urgent. Talking about it now saves young lives,” Atienza wrote.
The TV personality also expressed compassion for people who may have been hurt by the issue, particularly those living with depression or families who have lost loved ones to the illness.
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