Cebu Normal University-Medellin Campus (CNU-M) marked World Mental Health Day, October 30, with the themes “#MentalHealthMatters” and “#DifferentViewsInOneWorld,” at the campus covered court.

Prof. Laarne Pontillas, the Campus Director of CNU-M, welcomed the seminar participants virtually; she said students must balance peace and resilience to maintain a healthy mental state.

Moreover, Dr. Maricel Rivera, the Education Program Chairperson, acknowledged the BEEd and BSEd English students.

Dr. Grace Flores, the Tourism Program Chairperson, also acknowledged the presence of the tourism programs STM (Sustainable Tourism Management) and THSM (Tourism Hospitality and Services Management) by executing their “mabuhay gesture” and highlighting the importance of mental health in students’ academic demands, relationships, and economic challenges.

The first speaker, Mrs. Laura Ferlau Ponpon, a CNU-M school nurse, discussed personal wellness and the importance of being proactive in contributing to overall mental health. She highlighted the four parts of wellness: physical, emotional, spiritual, and environmental wellness, which are essential for achieving positive mental health and overall well-being. To inspire students, Mrs. Ponpon shared a quote from Marcus Aurelius: “Life is not merely about being alive, but being well,” encouraging them to see that a good life requires healthy living.

Following this, Dr. Concepcion Payao, the Coordinator of the Student Affairs and Development Office (SADO) and Guidance Counselor engaged students with an interactive online survey asking, “How are you feeling?” followed by creative activities like body mapping, art, and expressive therapy through an art gallery that encouraged self-expression, collaboration, and inter-program communication.

Dr. Payao emphasized that students must understand their mental health to release tension and prevent stress and depression. She concluded the seminar by thanking students for attending and presenting a certificate of appreciation to Mrs. Ponpon for educating them on the importance of health in relation to mental well-being, especially amid academic pressures.

The seminar emphasized the vital role of mental health awareness among students, especially in navigating academic challenges.