Sharing matters more than you think: AXA’s Docu-Therapy brings mental health into focus

AXA, a worldwide leader in insurance, recently launched Group Therapy, a 90-minute documentary delivering a simple, life-saving message: sharing is therapeutic. More than a film, it offers a “docu-therapy” experience that explores how essential it is to recognize and share about mind health issues to start dealing with them.

Hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, a multi-awarded American actor, the film features six world-class stand-up comedians, Mike Birbiglia, Nicole Byer, Gary Gulman, London Hughes, Tig Notaro, and Atsuko Okatsuka, who open up about their personal mental health journeys in intimate conversations. Their vulnerability serves a deep purpose: to encourage others to share their own stories and keep conversations going around mental well-being.

The documentary comes at a crucial time for the Philippines. According to AXA’s 2025 Mind Health Report, mental health continues to be a concern for Filipinos with more being affected by anxiety at severe and extremely severe levels and are suffering from depression and stress at even mild levels compared to the global population. The prevalence of mental health challenges is even higher among young people as 86% of Filipinos aged 18 to 24 experience at least mild forms of anxiety, stress, or depression. 

On the other hand, Filipino youth are more likely to seek help or confide in friends and seek peer support compared to older adults, who tend to be more reserved in their trust and willingness to discuss their concerns. Additionally, young individuals are at the forefront of embracing digital tools for self-help resources.

"While the aid of professional therapy, medication, and workshops remain the most important, we recognize that community and connection are also vital for Filipino mental wellness," said AXA Philippines’ chief executive officer, Ayman Kandil. “By normalizing these conversations, we can help break down barriers, reduce stigma, and encourage more people to seek the care and support they need.”

"Through sharing the stories of these actors and comedians, we aim to inspire meaningful conversations that foster understanding and compassion within our communities. Opening up about challenges can be a powerful step toward healing, and when we create safe spaces for dialogue, we remind people that they are not alone,” Kandil added.

This documentary is a co-production between AXA and renowned comedian Kevin Hart’s Hartbeat Productions, available for viewing at AXA Philippines’ YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l8CkyMUQTdA.      

For more information about AXA Philippines' commitment to holistic well-being for all, visit https://www.axa.com.ph.