𝐉𝐇𝐂𝐒𝐂 𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐮𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐧

The J.H. Cerilles State College (JHCSC) Pagadian Campus Guidance and Counselling Office, led by Ms. Catherine D. Cabal, RGC, RPM, spearheaded a Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Caravan on October 17, 2025, in collaboration with the Student Peer Facilitators (SPF).

With the theme “Creating Hope Through Action,” the initiative aimed to promote mental health awareness and emotional well-being among students. The activity was made possible through the support of Ms. Janniece L. Magsayo, Pagadian Campus OSASS Department Head, and Dr. Patricia D. Bahian, Pagadian Campus Director.

In her message, Ms. Magsayo expressed her support for the program and emphasized the need to create safe spaces where students can freely share their struggles. She assured that the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSASS) will continue to work closely with the Guidance and Counselling Office in providing holistic support. Dr. Bahian, on the other hand, commended the initiative and encouraged students to reach out for help when facing challenges, stressing that mental health is essential to overall success.

The caravan featured an informative lecture on navigating life’s challenges as a college student, highlighting practical ways to manage stress, build resilience, and maintain a positive mindset. The discussion centered on understanding mental health and self-awareness. The guest speaker reminded everyone that “you are not alone” and emphasized the importance of self-care, saying that one “cannot pour from an empty cup,” urging students to prioritize their well-being before helping others.

In addition to the lecture, the event included interactive activities that encouraged participants to express their emotions and reflect on personal experiences. These sessions fostered empathy, connection, and openness among students, reinforcing the value of communication and mutual support in maintaining emotional wellness.

The activity strengthened JHCSC Pagadian Campus’ commitment to advancing mental health advocacy and encouraging students to take active steps toward their well-being. It demonstrated the institution’s dedication to nurturing a compassionate and supportive academic environment grounded in understanding, empathy, and hope.