A space to speak… a chance to heal – The 4th Year students of the Organization of Psychology Students (OPS) from the University of Batangas (UB) College of Arts and Sciences championed mental health awareness in their outreach program at Agoncillo, Batangas on December 4, 2023.
The OPS students, guided by their “Change Agents: Strengthening and Empowering the Mental Health of Students” program, aimed to break the stigma surrounding mental health, bringing the students of Agoncillo closer to a feeling of understanding and acceptance.
The program featured interactive activities designed to evaluate understanding and encourage openness. This included a creative slogan-making contest, an engaging group-sharing session, a short, insightful play performed by the facilitators, and a short film viewing to reinforce the day’s lessons.
The Psychology students and faculty, under the leadership of their dean, Dr. Priscilla Mizpah P. Santillana, shared a core belief – that creating a safe space to talk is the first step in encouraging individuals to seek the professional help they need.
Behind the university’s commitment to community-focused initiatives lies its mission to foster hands-on, experiential learning and empower students to make a tangible, positive impact on well-being.
In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the outreach program proudly observed SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), specifically focusing on indicator 3.4 that focuses on promoting mental health and well-being.