Last June 30, 2025, Rizal National High School, in partnership with UC Guidance Services and Wellness Center, conducted a Psychosocial Session on Social and Emotional Learning to Grades 7 and 8 students. Almost 550 students attended the session, which were divided into two (2) batches. With the theme “Thrive: Building Emotional Resilience and Positive Relationships in School,” the session aims to equip the learners with vital skills that will help them thrive both in and out of the school.
To kick off the session, Mr. Cristian Adam D. Salanga, Guidance Facilitator focused on the discussion of self-awareness. He emphasized the importance of having a deep connection with the inner self which can help a person understand himself better. Looking deeply towards the inner self provides a foundation for personal growth, better and stronger relationship with others, improved decision-making skills, and increased confidence and creativity.
This was followed by a discussion on stress management by Ms. Charmaine M. Factor, Guidance Facilitator. She discussed about what stress and anxiety are, its symptoms and common stressors of high school students. She also delved into how the students can better handle stress and anxiety with different healthy coping strategies that they can easily use. She emphasized the importance of reaching out and asking for help when they need it.
Ms. Charlyn Mae F. Cabalo, Inclusive Learning Support Staff, concluded the session with an engaging discussion on empathy and how understanding others makes life awesome. She discussed how students can be more in tune with what others are thinking and feeling. She highlighted that by teaching students to be empathetic, they can be more understanding towards others, bullying can be reduced, schools can be a safe place for them and ultimately, they can lay the foundation of a kinder world.
In conclusion, the session plays a vital role in equipping students with knowledge and skills they need to navigate both their personal and academic life. By enhancing self-awareness, equipping them with healthy coping strategies for stress and anxiety, and developing empathy, we can empower students to build resilience in the face of challenges, promote healthier mental well-being and helping them to thrive in all aspects of their lives, both now and in the future.
