The Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development (DOH Bicol CHD) together with Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center (BRHMC), Bicol Medical Center (BMC), Bicol Region General Hospital and Geriatric Medical Center (BRGHGMC) and in partnership with Pili National High School conducted the Kumusta Ka? Tara Usap Tayo Mental Health Fair on September 27, 2024 at Pili National High School, Pili, Camarines Sur.
The activity aims to promote the importance of mental health among students in and out of the school premises.
Pili National High School Principal Dr. Erma Escuro expressed her gratitude to the DOH Bicol for supporting their school programs. She said that their school is continuing efforts to provide an environment for students where their emotional well-being is nurtured.
In the Be Healthy with Me (BHW Me) segment, Dr. Ellaine R. Romano, Medical Specialist II, Adult and Child Psychiatry, Bicol Medical Center (BMC) and Dr. Olivia P. Inoturan, Medical Specialist II, Psychiatrist, Bicol Medical Center provided talks on the importance of students keeping check on their mental health. They discussed the essence of self-care and talking openly about mental health with peers and family members.
Ms. Kathleen Sia, Health Education and Promotion Officer (HEPO II, BRGHGMC, Mr. Kenn Brian A. Perez, HEPO III, BRHMC, Ms. Psyche C. Pante, HEPO II, BMC gave their messages of support to the mental health program.
In his closing message, Provincial DOH Officer of Camarines Sur Dr. Rey Millena emphasized that mental health starts in the family and that children should not be afraid to open up to their parents about their problems. Dr. Millena also said that there are special health services for adolescents like guidance counseling and adolescent friendly health facilities. He said that mental health is a big part of what makes students responsible and healthy individuals.
The Mental Health Fair gathered more than 200 students from the said high school. Booths were set up by the BRHMC, BMC, BRGHGMC, and DOH Bicol which provided mental health services to students such as pyschological support group sessions, interactive games and prizes, and information cards on mental health.
Source: DOH Bicol CHD