USTP Jasaan conducts Mental Health Forum
By Mary Jeannette Kaye V. Carlos, USTP Jasaan Guidance Counselor
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Jasaan, May 30, 2023 – The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) Jasaan hosted a Mental Health Forum aimed at raising awareness about mental health and stress management among students on May 30, 2023, featuring esteemed guest speaker, Ms. Teresita C. Agsimon.
The Mental Health Forum drew an impressive turnout, with a total of 412 participants from various programs under the university. The event catered to students from the Bachelor of Science in Energy Systems and Management (BSESM) program (95 students), the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) program (109 students), the Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Engineering Technology (BSMET) program (132 students), and the Bachelor of Science in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering (BSNAME) and Bachelor of Science in Technology Communications Management (BSTCM) programs (76 students).
The forum kicked off promptly at 8:00 AM at the Open Ground of USTP Jasaan, with the organizers setting the stage for a day filled with engaging and informative discussions from Ms. Agsimon, a well-respected mental health advocate.
As the guest speaker, Ms. Agsimon brought her wealth of knowledge and expertise to the forefront. Her discussion primarily focused on two key aspects: raising awareness about mental health and equipping students with effective stress management techniques.
Participants actively engaged in thought-provoking activities, including the “self-care contract” and the “finger activity.”
During the self-care contract activity, students were encouraged to reflect on their personal well-being and commit to practicing self-care. This exercise aimed to emphasize the significance of prioritizing mental health and adopting healthy coping mechanisms in the face of stress and challenges.
The finger activity, on the other hand, prompted students to assess their level of self-awareness. Through a series of questions, participants evaluated how well they truly knew themselves and their emotions. This activity provided valuable insights into self-reflection and self-discovery.
The event was facilitated by the Guidance Services Units of the USTP Jasaan and the USTP Cagayan de Oro. Dr. Ralph Vendel Musni, the head of the Guidance Services Unit of USTP CDO, was also present during the event.
The Mental Health Forum continued throughout the day, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for open discussions. Participants actively shared their personal experiences, concerns, and sought guidance from both Ms. Agsimon and the facilitators from the Guidance Services Units of USTP Jasaan and USTP CDO.
The event concluded at 5:00 PM, leaving a lasting impact on the attendees. The Mental Health Forum not only raised awareness about mental health but also empowered students with practical strategies to manage stress effectively, ultimately promoting their overall well-being.
The success of the forum can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of the organizers, the engaging and insightful presentations by the guest speaker, and the active participation of the students. By fostering a sense of community and support, the event highlighted the USTP Jasaan’s commitment to prioritizing mental health among its student body.
The organizers expressed their gratitude to Ms. Agsimon, the facilitators, and all the participants for their valuable contributions to the success of the Mental Health Forum. Through their collective efforts, they have made a significant impact on promoting mental health awareness and fostering a supportive environment for students at USTP Jasaan.