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Written by Public Health Unit (PHU)

Category: News and Events

Published: 16 June 2025

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The NCMH - Center for Wellness, in collaboration with the Public Health Unit, advocates for a healthy and supportive school environment at Addition Hills Integrated School.

As the new school year opens, a Mental Health Caravan was conducted for Grade 7 to Grade 12 students to help prepare them for the journey ahead. The aim was to equip their minds for academic success and well-being, recognizing that readiness involves physical and mental health.

During the event, health advocates and experts presented a range of insightful topics. Mr. Anthony Z. Baltazar discussed fostering a mentally healthy school environment by creating a supportive space where everyone feels valued and understood. Mr. Marc Neil G. Francisco explained Psychological First Aid, guiding the students on responding and providing help when someone is in crisis. Dr. Paul Stephen I. Montales addressed common misconceptions about mental health and explained how we can fight the stigma. Of course, many students experience stress in their academic journey. To illuminate this, Mr. Marvin T. Baraoidan shared the story of "Vella," a student battling academic stress - and how she overcame her struggles, emphasizing the importance of proper coping mechanisms. To help students manage stress effectively, Ms. Kate C. Balbido demonstrated stress management techniques that can be easily applied daily. Finally, Mr. Jhoeward James A. Solis stressed the importance of self-care, emphasizing that self-care is key to maintaining overall well-being.

The event was informative, interactive, and empowering. It gave the students valuable knowledge, skills, and strategies to navigate their academic journeys while honoring their mental health. Everyone pledged to pursue a mentally healthy lifestyle and foster a supportive school community to symbolize their unity and resolve.

This caravan made a profound and lasting impact, sending a powerful message: health and education go hand in hand, and when we care for our minds, we empower ourselves to achieve our fullest potential.