Students from different institutes in Cotabato City participate in free counseling during the Mental Health Awareness celebration led by the Ministry of Health (MOH) at Notre Dame University Gym in the said city on Oct. 17, 2024. (Michael Camsa/BIO)
COTABATO CITY—To promote coping mechanisms and curb negative social stigma about mental health issues, the Bangsamoro Government celebrated Mental Health Awareness Month on Oct. 17, at Notre Dame University in this city.
Held through the Ministry of Health (MOH), almost 200 high school, Senior high school, and psychology students from the host Notre Dame University, Cotabato State University (CSU), System Technology Institute (STI)—Cotabato City, Dr. Ocampo College, Inc., Notre Dame Village National High School, San Vicente Academy, and Coland System Technology, Inc. graced the event.
MOH Psychiatrist and Mental Health Unit Head Dr. Norman Prince Datumanong emphasized that a healthy mindset is one of the foundations of a healthy nation.
“It cannot be said that a person is healthy only in the physical aspect. Hence, there is no health without mental health,” Dr. Datumanong said.
He added, “It is significant to address these concerns with care and confidentiality, as many individuals hesitate to seek help due to the stigma surrounding mental health conditions.”
The program focused on raising awareness about anxiety and other mental health disorders while promoting positive coping strategies and combating the stigma surrounding mental health.
From an Islamic perspective, Ustadza Anisa Taha Arab explained that any challenges in life are considered a test for believers, and a holistic approach, integrating the mind, body, and soul, is necessary.
She said, “To cope with different challenges in life, a believer should always have faith and trust in God (Allah SWT), believe in Qad’r (everything happens as a result of Allah’s will and nothing is random or without reason), never lose hope, and always pray to overcome all those problems in life.”
MOH Health Promotion Officer Saida Diocolano-Ali reiterated that the issue of mental health is not just about addressing mental disorders but also encompasses the active participation of every Bangsamoro in creating a supportive environment.
During the Q&A, students identified eating habits, social media use, and listening to music as their top stress-coping mechanisms.
Other activities included interactive booths such as “Mirror Loves You,” encouraging self-love, and the “Grid of Emotions,” a truth-or-dare game, among others. The event also featured a “Help Desk Health Hub” for peer counseling.
World Mental Health Day aims to foster hope and empower people to take action toward lasting change. The event was attended by various BARMM ministries, local government units, and the City Health Office. (Kasan Usop, Jr./BIO)
