Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office
SDG 3 SDG 4 SDG 17
As the country continues to intensify conversations on mental health—particularly following the observance of Men's Mental Health Awareness Month in June—the Office of Counseling and Psychological Services (OCPS) has strengthened its commitment to fostering a campus environment where resilience, emotional well-being, and help-seeking are encouraged and supported.
During Mental Health Week 2026, held from March 16 to 20, the University gathered students, faculty members, administrative personnel, coaches, and student-athletes in a series of seminars and wellness activities designed to equip participants with practical strategies for navigating stress, setbacks, and life's everyday challenges.
The week's discussions began on March 17 with "Turning Setbacks into Comebacks: How Challenges Shape Us," where Dr. Rodrigo V. Lopiga, Director of OCPS, underscored the importance of building psychological resilience before adversity strikes.
"Mental health, resilience, and psychological preparedness are essential in overcoming life's challenges," Dr. Lopiga emphasized in his opening message.
Delivering the seminar proper, Ms. Jennifer A. Galapon, Head Teacher III and Guidance Advocate, challenged participants to reframe failures as opportunities for growth. Through practical examples, she encouraged student-athletes and university personnel to develop self-awareness, strengthen resilience, and cultivate a growth mindset instead of allowing setbacks to define their future.
The conversation shifted from resilience to emotional wellness on March 18 through "Malusog na Kaisipan, Masayang PUPian (Laughter Therapy) Version 2.0," where Mr. Paulo Martin Trinidad, Founder of Pinoy Laughter Yoga, demonstrated how laughter can serve as a powerful therapeutic tool.
Opening his discussion, Trinidad posed a question that resonated with participants: "What is happiness?"
He later reminded attendees that thoughts influence actions and ultimately shape one's future, quoting:
"Watch your thoughts for they become words, watch your words for they become actions, watch your actions for they become habits, watch your habits for they become your character, and watch your character for they become your destiny."
Highlighting the science behind laughter therapy, Trinidad noted that 20 seconds of genuine laughter produces physiological benefits comparable to three to five minutes of heavy exercise, emphasizing that happiness is not merely an emotion but an important contributor to overall health.
On March 19, the final webinar, "Power Up Positivity: Thrive Through Challenges," focused on sustaining optimism amid academic and professional pressures. In his opening remarks, Dr. Lopiga reminded participants that positivity does not mean denying hardship.
"Positivity is not about ignoring problems, but about building the mental capacity to handle them effectively," he said, citing survey findings showing that insufficient sleep continues to affect students' mental wellness and academic performance.
Resource speaker Dr. Gerry L. Rivas opened his session by asking: "When was the last time you felt truly overwhelmed?"
He encouraged participants to embrace optimism as an active choice rather than passive wishful thinking.
"Optimism isn't about ignoring problems. Instead, it's about facing those problems with hope and believing things can get better."
Rivas also urged participants to celebrate small victories, practice gratitude, take meaningful breaks to prevent burnout, and rely on friends, family, mentors, and teachers during difficult times.
Although the activities were conducted in March, their message remains especially timely amid the country's continuing efforts to normalize conversations about mental health. The University's Mental Health Week echoes the growing call to ensure that no one—particularly men and young people who often hesitate to seek support—faces emotional struggles alone.
The initiative reflects the University's INSPIRED Core Values by promoting Integrity and Accountability through responsible self-care, Passion for Learning and Innovation through evidence-based wellness interventions, Sense of Service by expanding access to psychological support, Inclusivity through safe spaces for open dialogue, and Excellence by nurturing resilient and emotionally healthy members of the academic community.
Likewise, the program advances Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, reinforcing the University's commitment to holistic education and collaborative mental health advocacy.
Need Someone to Talk To? Help Is Always Available.
Mental health challenges can affect anyone, and reaching out for support is a courageous first step toward healing.
If you would like to speak with a counselor, we encourage you to schedule a face-to-face counseling session by booking an appointment through PUP SINTA.
If you or someone you know is experiencing an immediate mental health crisis, please seek professional assistance through any of the following crisis hotlines:
Philippine General Hospital (PGH)
National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) Crisis Hotline
To stay informed about the latest Office of Counseling and Psychological Services (OCPS) programs, mental health initiatives, and available support services, follow the official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PUPGuidanceOfficial
Remember: You are not alone. Asking for help is a sign of strength, and support is always within reach.
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