SAN FERNANDO CITY (PIA) – The Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-La Union, in coordination with La Union Association of Government Information Officers (LUAGIO) and Rotary Club of Metro San Fernando, conducted an online mental health forum for the youth dubbed “Pag-usapan NaTEEN” on October 14.
With more than 70 participating Sangguniang Kabataan officers and members within the province, the online activity aims to create a safe and healthy discourse about mental health issues.
First District Board Member Geraldine Joy Ortega encourages participants to ask those who are depressed and anxious, through checking them in during the virtual forum on October 14.
The webinar was divided into three parts: “Passion and Purpose,” “Sustainable Lifestyle and Mindset Shift,” and “Depression and Anxiety Management among Youth” discussed by invited keynote speakers.
Mental health advocate Marie Curie de Pona, one of the speakers, said “There are normal emotions, the sadness. But when we say depression, it is a persistent sadness and a kind of mental illness. The thing is that you cannot see it outside. Everything is okay physically, but the problem is what’s inside the head.”
Meanwhile, Board Member Joy Ortega said, “Also, do not quickly judge those who are depressed and anxious because we do not know what battles they are fighting for and say ‘Kamusta ka?’ because sometimes, they just want to be heard.”
In her presentation during the online forum for youth on October 14, mental health advocate Marie Curie de Pona differentiates 'sadness' and 'depression'.
Moreover, tourism expert Toby Tamayo urged the participants to choose the environment as a natural healer especially for mental health.
PIA-La Union is open to help and continue disseminating information, programs, and activities that highlight mental health awareness. (JCR/AMB/KJCR, PIA La Union)
