By: Sheila Patoza

KALIBO, Aklan (PIA) — The Province of Aklan through the Provincial Health Office (PHO) here, in collaboration with the Aklan Provincial Population and Gender Office (AKPPGO), recently conducted the first batch of the Mental Health Camp at the Ati-than Festival Hotel, Kalibo, Aklan.

This is in line with the province’s observance of Suicide Prevention Month this September.

A total of 30 peer educators from various municipalities attended the first batch of the Mental Health Camp on Sept. 14, 2024. The camp featured team-building activities to foster cooperation and mutual support among the participants.

The event included a discussion relevant to youth development, including understanding adolescence, coping with peer pressure, and identifying strengths and weaknesses.

Paul Adrian M. Pelayo, Adolescent Health and Development (AHD) Coordinator; Raffy T. Relator, AHD Assistant Coordinator; Devriz D. Demeterio, Administrative Officer I; and Vernadeth L. Bantang, an educator from STI College, were present at the said event.

In an interview, PHO-Aklan Mental Health Coordinator Psyche Mae V. Ruiz stated that it is crucial to celebrate Suicide Prevention Month to raise awareness.

“Gina-highlight naton nga ro mental health hay dapat gina isturyahan ag indi naton taw-an it negatibo nga connotation,” she said.

(We highlight that mental health should be discussed and we should not give it a negative connotation.)

She also explained that raising awareness can break down the stigma.

“If we change the narrative about this stigma, we can empower individuals to recognize and help those struggling,” Ruiz added.

Ruiz also emphasized the importance of community, which fosters a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable talking about their feelings and seeking support.

“Normal eang nga kita hay makabatyag ag maghambae nga bukon healthy ro atong mental health,” she stressed.

(It is normal that we could feel and say that our mental health is not healthy.)

Ruiz assured their commitment to implement programs that promote suicide prevention in the province.

She also highlighted the involvement of local government units and the municipal health officers of rural health units, which are vital in promoting mental health literacy and reducing the stigma associated with seeking help for mental health issues.

“Aklan PHO has been working with various LGUs to ensure they can provide and support mental health services locally,” she added.

The province has recorded a total of 42 suicide incidents from January to August this year. (AGP/SQP/PIA-Aklan with reports from Chantal Jade V. Tolores – DOLE GIP)

Image Caption : Some 30 peer educators from various municipalities take part in the first batch of the Mental Health Camp on Sept. 14, 2024. The camp featured team-building activities to foster cooperation and mutual support among the participants. (Photo courtesy of AKPPGO)