CAS Mentors, Students Talk About Suicide Prevention, Mental Health Awarness

In a meaningful dialogue about the importance of mental health on campus and in the workplace, the College of Arts and Sciences teachers and students participated in a campus-wide seminar on Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness held today, November 9, 2024, at the Old Administration Building.

Organized by the Student Affairs and Services (SAS) under its Guidance Unit and Information and Orientation Unit, in close coordination with the National Service Training Program (NSTP) Unit, the event convened first-year students enrolled in the NSTP and members of recognized student organizations (SO).

Dr. Arvin P. Vallesteros, Bayombong Campus Administrator, opened the seminar by reiterating the University’s commitment to mental health support and an inclusive, supportive environment for students and employees.

Following his address, Mr. Jerwin F. Memita, SAS Campus Coordinator, outlined the seminar’s purpose and provided a preview of what students could expect, such as resources for managing mental health challenges and practical tips for self-care practices.

Meanwhile, several CAS teachers served as both speakers and facilitators in support of the SAS staff and student leaders, who also served as speakers to enhance relatability and encourage active peer engagement.

During the opening program, Mr. Ian Bernard S. Lopez, a CAS faculty member, provided an overview of the Safe Spaces Act and urged the importance of respectful, supportive interactions across campus. Then, the following concurrent sessions each focused on a specific theme related to mental health and well-being:

Theme 1: Mental Health and Safe Spaces Act

Hosted on the second floor of the Library Complex, this session featured various faculty speakers, including Ms. Mitus D. Puguon and Mr. Lopez, CAS faculty members, who examined the connections between mental health advocacy and safe spaces inside and outside the classroom and workplace.

Theme 2: Advocating Wellness and Self-case from the Student Perspective

Spearheaded by Ms. Jacqueline V. Iglesias, SAS Department Head and CAS faculty member, together with her facilitating group, at the CSIT Rooms in the ITE Building, this session mentioned about self-care practices, with student leaders sharing insights on peer support and mindfulness strategies.

Theme 3: Wellness, Self-Care, and HIV-AIDS Education

Led by Ms. Adeline M. De Guzman and Ms. Catherine R. Dela Cruz, CAS faculty members, at the Joseph Abuan Sentosa Friendship Hall and CAS 107, this session explored the connection between mental health and HIV-AIDS awareness, promoting informed health choices and reducing stigma.

A campus training on Guidance and Counseling also took place at the Alumni Building, where students and SAS staff gained practical skills for addressing mental health issues and accessing counseling services.

The seminar, a collaborative effort by the SAS Guidance Unit, Information and Orientation Unit, and NSTP Unit, aims to foster a sustainable, well-rounded approach to mental health by equipping students with tools for personal resilience and contributing to a supportive campus culture.