The Provincial Government of Ilocos Sur–Provincial Youth Development Office collaborated with UNP’s BS Psychology program for a mental health caravan held at the Municipal Gym, Poblacion, Santa, Ilocos Sur on March 18, 2024.

Other partners who facilitated the 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿;𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗻♀𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗻 were the UNP Psychology Students Association, Hon. Vic Singson, JCI Vigan, and the LGBTQIA+, Indigenous People, Person with Disabilities, 4Ps, Solo Parent/Married Students Organization.

The event is an opportunity for the youth, particularly young women, in prioritizing their mental health. By promoting mental health awareness and support, women are empowered to prioritize their mental well-being and break the stigma surrounding mental health.

A free mental health consultation was also given for the young women through Mr. Mico M. Molina and Ms. Alexandria Blake C. Real-Pisalbo, both psychologists and instructors of UNP, together with the PHO Team for the intake interview and kumustahan.

Likewise, Ms. Yra Rapisura, Miss Ilocos Sur 2024, talked about young women empowerment. This was followed with a conversation entitled “Kumusta ka, Bestie?” with Hon. Maria Angela B. Oriente (PPSK President of Santa), Ms. Alexandria Blake Real-Pisalbo (psychologist and instructor of UNP), Ms. Noemie Kathleen T. Balbuena (Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer), and Ms. Honey Pearl Tabieros (Provincial Health Office, Mental Health Coordinator).

To help achieve a sound mental well-being, a chair yoga and meditation was facilitated by Ms. Joana Cara S. Medina a certified yoga teacher.

Self-care stations were also opened for the young women. This includes mind games, painting areas, and human snakes and ladders.

Article and photo by Mico Molina.