Mental health seminar creates safe haven for student well-being

| Angel Evans Durante

In observance of World Mental Health Day on October 14, JCSGO Christian Academy held a three-day mental health seminar to strengthen student well-being.

Student Development Services Department (SDS) Head Ms. Sheila Padilla organized the seminar so more students can speak their minds and understand their feelings.

“Our goal in this seminar was to give students courage to speak their mind and to be able to ask for help when they need it,” she shared.

The seminar specifically addressed anxiety, depression, and other common factors that can affect the well-being of students.

As part of its efforts, JCA also partnered with the Philippine Mental Health Association (PMHA) Inc. earlier this month to strengthen mental health awareness and support across the school community.

Grade 9 student Mycah Michelle Pillodar shared how the SDS department immersed themselves in the silent struggles the students face.

“Nagtatanong din talaga sila sa mga students how they’re doing, kung ano ‘yung mga pinagdadaanan namin … reminding us na they’re still a guiding light with us.”

Students saw the seminar as a sign that there are people who truly care about them and that counseling is a safe place for all students to tell their story without judgment.

The seminar also taught students not to be ashamed or hide what they feel. Instead, tell trusted people about their problems to ease the weight they are carrying.

Moreover, the SDS gave bookmarks with an affirmation and a Bible verse to JCAians outside its department as part of the Mental Health Awareness commemoration.