To inform and educate employees, students, staff, and guests on mental health and well-being, a talk on mental wellness was conducted at the Idea and Knowledge Center (IKC) on June 19.
Titled “Harmony of Melodies: A Symphony on Mind, Body, and Music,” the event featured CNU VSMMC College of Medicine Dean Dr. Jarungchai Vatanagul, who discussed addressing mental well-being and burnout in school and the workplace.
Moreover, Dr. Glenda Basubas, a psychiatrist and addiction medicine expert, discussed how to effectively navigate stress using evidence-based strategies and practical tools for building personal and organizational resilience.
Addressing those facing mental health challenges, Dr. Basubas urged individuals to seek help, emphasizing that “it is okay not to be okay.”
She likewise encouraged them to visit and avail of the medical services offered to the public.
“Ayaw kahadlok. That’s why the CNU College of Medicine has been attached to the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC), because here, we offer psychological and psychiatric services. We offer it, we give it, and we have free medications,” she said.
As mental health challenges affect people of all ages, she called on individuals to seek help when needed.
“The help is there; all you have to do is ask,” she said.
“Remember, the earlier the intervention, the better the outcome. So, attend to yourself early. If there is a problem, ask for help,” Dr. Basubas added.
Furthermore, COM Dean, Dr. Vatanagul, underscored the importance of public awareness and open discussions surrounding mental health to encourage more people to pursue healthy mental well-being.
“If everyone would be open, education would be easier. I would like to reiterate the importance of education and awareness because once the public is educated and aware, and there are services that are free, such as those in VSMMC, then that fear would most likely be alleviated,” he said.
Dr. Vatanagul also emphasized the role of institutions in utilizing social media as a platform for mental health information.
“Another way social media can be useful is when it is not a source of disinformation but rather a source of clear and validated information,” he shared.
For those with mental health concerns, they may visit the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC) Center for Behavioral Sciences at B. Rodriguez Street, Sambag II, Cebu City.
The initial consultation fee is only P75.00, while senior citizens and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are charged P65.00. Follow-up consultations and medications are provided for free.
Padayon, CNU!
