By: Joe-el S. Marcelo
On June 1, 2026, the CBA 1st-year students gathered for a timely and deeply impactful seminar: “Mind Maintenance: Mental Health Seminar.” This session was specifically crafted to equip our freshmen with the tools, insights, and coping mechanisms they need to navigate college life mindfully and resiliently.
The session was conducted with Mr. Johnfrey C. Cabalonga as the resource speaker. His profound insights and empathetic approach provided everyone with practical advice on stress management, self-care, and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.
KEY SEMINAR TAKEAWAYS
The session shed light on both theoretical tools and real-world pressures faced by freshmen:
- ⚖️ Eustress vs. Distress: Distinguishing between Good Stress (e.g., starting a new job or preparing for a competition that drives performance) vs. Bad Stress (e.g., ongoing financial troubles or major loss that impairs functioning).
- 🎒 Program Misalignment: Acknowledging that not all students chose their current program or college course, creating a unique and silent stressor for many.
- 💸 Everyday Pressures: Discussing common sources of anxiety, such as heavy schoolwork demands and managing an insufficient allowance.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
- Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being
- Indicator 3.4.2: Suicide mortality rate. Fostering institutional mental health support frameworks, validating emotional distress, and promoting active help-seeking behaviors are critical to improving mental health outcomes in student communities.
- Goal 4: Quality Education
- Indicator 4.3.3: Vocational training events (lifelong learning). Providing foundational soft skills, stress management tools, and emotional resilience training equips students to successfully navigate their academic pathways.
Photos and layout by: Ms. Camille Villena
