Santiago, Cagayan Valley, Philippines—In observance of October as World Mental Health Awareness Month, Human Development Center of the University of La Salette, Inc., successfully conducted a seminar on mental health at the CPD Building on October 18, 2024, with the theme “Arakup: Being a Safe Space in the Workplace”, spearheaded by HDC Directress Jhoanna Marie M. Guittering, RPm, MOP, RPsy.

The Seminar/Workshop on Psychosocial Support and Psychological First Aid aimed to raise awareness about mental health issues and support to students and faculty members.

The seminar featured a panel of speakers, including Wilfrido F. Simbul, MD, FPAFP, MHS, ULS Director of Health Services, who discussed mental health concerns within the university community. Chloe Neziah B. Mandac, RPm, RPsy, a renowned resource speaker, delivered a comprehensive seminar on mental health and well-being.

Dr. Simbul elaborated that the Mental Health Awareness seminar is part of the Family Welfare Program.

DOLE Department Order No. 56-03, December 11, 2003, rationalizes the implementation of the Family Welfare Program (FWP) in DOLE. The order modifies the priorities of the FWP from promoting family planning to providing family welfare services to workers. The ten dimensions of the program include reproductive health, education, spirituality, income generation, medical care, nutrition, environmental protection, sports, housing, and transportation. The order also defines reproductive health and outlines the major activities that can be undertaken under the FWP. The DOLE will ensure the full implementation of the program in partnership with other government agencies, employers, workers, and civil society.

Ms. Mandac’s lectures delve into the crucial topic of Psychological First Aid (PFA) and explore practical strategies for becoming a psychological first-aider and providing psychological support.

The speakers highlighted that supportive communication plays a vital role in maintaining mental well-being. By creating a safe and understanding environment, individuals can more effectively process their emotions and build resilience, express themselves, seek support, and build healthy relationships

University officials, including Vice President for Academic Affairs, Madeilyn B. Estacio, Ph.D. and Director of Human Resource Management Rouel L. Ramirez, MBM, emphasized the importance of addressing mental health concerns and fostering a supportive environment for students and faculty in the university.

ULS remains committed to promoting mental health awareness and providing resources to support the well-being of its students and faculty.

By Arjay Jonathan S. Sibalon, MAED