On July 20, 2024, the University of the Cordilleras Guidance and Counseling Office played a vital role in promoting mental health awareness at Irisan National High School. Organized by the Sanguniang Kabataan (SK), the seminar titled “Usapang Health: Mental Health Awareness” aimed to address the pressing mental health issues faced by youth today with 50 participants from various age groups.
The session, running from 8:00 AM to 10:30 AM, began with Mr. Samuel Matabye, a Guidance Facilitator, who shed light on the importance of mental health. He highlighted alarming statistics and debunked common myths, emphasizing that mental health concerns are not only prevalent in our country but are also a global issue.
Understanding that awareness is just the first step, the seminar sought to reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking behavior among students. To make the session interactive, Ms. Stephanie Pogongan, a Guidance Facilitator, led a fun activity called “Find Me, Find You: Mindfulness Hunt.” Participants searched for items related to mental health coping strategies, reinforcing the message that proactive engagement is key to managing mental well-being.
The seminar concluded with a discussion on practical coping strategies for stress, reminding participants that their feelings are valid and important. Attendees were provided with helplines and resources for those in need of support, reiterating that it’s okay to not be okay.
Following this, another seminar was conducted on September 26, 2024, by the SK of Happy Hallow Barangay in partnership with Happy Hallow National High School over 150 participants. Ms. Stephanie Pogongan, alongside Ms. Marie Dirige both Guidance Facilitators, served as resource speakers for this engaging session. Ms. Pogongan began by discussing what mental health is, detailing relevant Republic Acts, and addressing the growing concern for mental health among Filipino youth. She emphasized the importance of using appropriate language when discussing mental health, which fostered an environment of understanding and respect.
Both events featured Atty. Paolo Salvosa, the UC Strategic Consultant, who attended the seminar and delivered an inspirational closing remark for the students of Happy Hallow National High School. These events were crucial steps in fostering a supportive community where mental health is openly discussed and help is readily available. By encouraging understanding and connection, we can create an environment where youth feel empowered to seek help and prioritize their mental well-being.
As we move forward, let these seminars serve as a reminder that mental health matters, and it is our collective responsibility to create a safe space for dialogue. Together, we can build a community where everyone feels validated, supported, and encouraged to embrace the truth: it’s okay to not be okay.
