Over 1,000 students attended the mental health seminar titled, “AGAPE: A Guide to Advancing Personal Growth through Emotional Well-Being,” at the University Gymnasium on Oct. 16, which highlighted the growing focus on emotional resilience and the importance of maintaining emotional well-being.
Dr. Argel B. Masanda, the first Filipino psychologist to earn a degree in forensic psychology, led the event and delivered a talk, aimed at providing students with practical tools for managing their emotional health.
“It’s okay to not be okay, but it’s not okay to stay that way,” he advised, encouraging students to seek help and build emotional resilience when facing challenges.
Dr. Masanda also addressed common misconceptions, emphasizing that mental health is real and not just a matter of perspective. He urged students to prioritize their mental health and seek professional support when necessary.
The seminar showed that mental health is an ongoing journey to which Dr. Masanda reminded students that developing emotional resilience and self-care habits are crucial in overcoming life’s challenges, particularly in a university setting.
Meanwhile, students expressed their appreciation for the seminar.
“Maganda po sana if may ganito tayong activity annually para ma-reassure na ang Enverga po ay open sa discussion sa mental health at walang halong judgment,” shared Zhyril Perez, one of the attendees.
Moreover, the event was organized by the Office of Student Affairs and Services Guidance Counselor Aira Abad.
According to Abad, the event’s success has sparked discussions of future workshops to continue raising mental health awareness.
The seminar’s message of prioritizing emotional health resonated deeply, marking AGAPE as a significant step in promoting emotional well-being and personal growth among Envergans.
