In a groundbreaking initiative to promote mental health awareness, the Provincial Population Office of South Cotabato partnered with Notre Dame of Lamba in Banga to host a Gender-Responsive Mental Health Aid Orientation for teachers. This timely event, held in celebration of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, focused on equipping educators with the necessary tools to better support their students’ mental health needs.
Mental health concerns among young people have become more prevalent in today’s fast-paced and digitally driven world. Recognizing this growing issue, the Provincial Government of South Cotabato, through the Provincial Population Office, spearheaded this training program. By arming teachers with knowledge and strategies tailored to a gender-sensitive approach, they ensure that both male and female students receive the care and attention they need in a way that respects their unique experiences and challenges.
The orientation program aimed to foster a culture of understanding and intervention within the school, preparing teachers to recognize signs of mental health struggles and respond effectively. From practical mental health aid strategies to nurturing open lines of communication, the training provided a well-rounded approach to tackling emotional distress among students.
A forward-thinking move by the Provincial Government, this training is just the first step in a larger initiative to promote mental well-being across the province. The orientation will soon be followed by a Mental Health Aid Symposium for students from Grades 7 to 12, making essential resources and information accessible to the youth. By addressing mental health in a comprehensive manner—starting with teacher training and extending to direct student support—the province is taking a proactive stance in shaping a mentally resilient community.
Through this initiative, South Cotabato’s Provincial Population Office continues to champion causes that matter most to its citizens. With the rising need for mental health support, this gender-responsive approach shows the government’s commitment to ensuring a healthier, more emotionally supported student population. The hope is that these efforts will not only prevent crises but also create an environment where students can thrive academically and personally.
This initiative highlights the Provincial Government’s enduring commitment to the well-being of its people—recognizing that mental health is just as vital as physical health in creating a prosperous and thriving community.
