13-16 October 2026
Benguet State University (BSU), through the Office of Student Services (OSS) and its Guidance and Counseling Unit, conducted a four-day Mental Health Week celebration anchored on the theme, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change.”
The celebration opened with creative activities that encouraged students to express their emotions and experiences through art. Pupils of the BSU Elementary Laboratory School participated in drawing and painting activities while students of the various BSU colleges engaged in poster-making, poetry writing, and photography. The activities provided opportunities for participants to explore their creativity and use artistic expression as a way of communicating their thoughts and feelings.
On the second day, BSU students and employees gathered at the OSS Hall for board games and book-reading activities. These provided participants with opportunities to relax, interact, and build stronger connections with fellow members of the university community. On the third day, the participants watched the films, “Patch Adams” and “Hidden Figures.” The films emphasized the importance of caring for one’s mental and emotional well-being, recognizing self-worth, and facing life’s challenges. These films also underscored the need to create an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
The celebration culminated with a viewing of a gallery that showcased students’ drawings, paintings, and posters depicting various mental health concerns. Through their artworks, students conveyed messages that encouraged viewers to understand their emotions, recognize mental health challenges, and extend support to individuals who may be struggling.
The final day also featured guest speakers who shared their personal experiences in dealing with mental health challenges and discussed how they navigated these difficulties. Their testimonies highlighted the importance of acknowledging personal struggles, seeking support, and recognizing that recovery is a process that individuals do not have to face alone.
One of the speakers, Jonalyn P. Dagupen, emphasized the importance of seeking help and openly discussing mental health struggles.
“Do not be afraid to talk to someone. There is no shame in experiencing depression or facing mental health challenges because keeping your struggles to yourself may only cause you more suffering,” Dagupen said.
Her message underscored the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraging individuals to seek support from trusted people and qualified mental health professionals. She also reminded participants that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step toward healing and recovery.
The four-day celebration concluded by reinforcing the importance of mental health awareness and collective support within the university community. The OSS Guidance and Counseling Unit encouraged students and employees experiencing personal or emotional difficulties to visit its office for guidance and assistance, assuring them that they would be welcomed and supported.
As the observance of Mental Health Awareness Month highlights the need to prioritize emotional well-being, the celebration served as a reminder that many individuals may be facing struggles that are not immediately visible. Listening to others, acknowledging their experiences, and offering understanding can help foster a more compassionate and supportive community.
Ultimately, the message of Mental Health Week goes beyond the activities and artworks: while people may not always know what others are going through, everyone can choose to listen without judgment, offer kindness, and remind others that they are not alone.//NSudaypan
📸NSudaypan, EBawang & PJGadang
