Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, a number of mental health-related problems have been recorded and were not only evident in people who have lost their jobs and loved ones, but also among students whose social interactions were compromised by the suspension of in-person classes. This was also aggravated by the worsening economic conditions of households resulting from the lack of income opportunities.
Ms. April Joy A. Rayon, RSW, and in-charge of the Educational Development Program (EDP) provides an orientation on mental health as the scholars’ parents intently listen.
MAFI continues to support its scholars amid these challenging times by conducting online group and individual counseling. Apart from this, the foundation recognized the important role of parents and/or guardians to ensure the mental soundness of their children. Hence, an Orientation on Mental Health Awareness held on May 17, 2022 was initiated for the MAFI Parents of Scholars Association (MAPSO). With the aim of promoting awareness on mental health and how it can help prevent depression and suicide, the learning session was participated in by the parents and/or guardians of scholars under MAFI’s Collegiate Degree Scholarship Program (CDSP) and Senior High School to College Educational Assistance Program (SHS-CEAP).
Ms. Thernalyn M. Pono, MAFI Program Manager, delivered an opening message and welcomed the all-women participants. She underscored that their presence is a clear manifestation of their love and support for their children who are vulnerable to depression and other mental health problems. She also emphasized that the parents and/or guardians are MAFI’s partners in ensuring the scholars’ holistic development. Ms. April Joy A. Rayon, EDP Social Worker presented and thoroughly discussed the topics.
Among the topics include the following: 1) what exactly is mental health, 2) what is stress and how to manage it, and 3) depression and suicide. An open forum followed after the presentation which gave the participants an opportunity to ask questions and share their personal experiences related to the topics.
Considering that issues on mental health have become prevalent these days, a similar undertaking will be conducted by MAFI for its scholars in the near future.
