UP Visayas Kicks Off Mental Health Month 2024

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The University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) launched its 2024 Mental Health Month celebration with a series of activities on Oct. 10, 2024.

The monthlong celebration began with a talk by Dr. Ruel Malata, chair of the West Visayas State University Medical Center’s Department of Psychiatry, titled “Pep Talk: Renewing the Mind.” Dr. Malata discussed cognitive behavioral therapy with UPV personnel and students at the Teaching and Learning Resource Center (TLRC) Audio-Visual Room on the Miagao campus.

He covered topics such as cognitive behavioral thought records, types of distorted automatic thoughts that contribute to emotional disorders, and the importance of seeking early treatment.

Following the talk, Office of Student Affairs (OSA) Director Prof. Agustin Huyong, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Dr. Alice Joan Ferrer, and Dr. Malata led the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the mental health exhibits displayed in the TLRC lobbies.

Additional activities on the first day included the “Ice Cream Treat for All” at the CUB and “Employees’ Self-Care” at the College of Management.

The monthlong celebration is organized by OSA in collaboration with the Health Services Unit, UPV University Student Council, Healthy Lifestyle and Wellness Committee, UPV Peer Facilitators, UPV DUCES, Gender and Development Program, UPV Employees Cooperative, All UP Academic Employees Union, Team Dugong Bughaw, and other partner organizations.

Talks, lectures, and wellness activities are scheduled throughout October as part of the celebration. (Written by Carlson Alelis, IPO, with sources from UPV OSA)