Lead by Example: Psych-led Symposium Empowers Youth Leaders thru Mental Health Upkeep

by John Vincent Balustre & Jocel Mae Latris

In an effort to establish mental well-being as central to an efficient discharge of responsibility, senior BA Psychology majors of the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) organized a symposium on “Lead with Balance: Cultivating Mental Health Support and Awareness,” held last November 23 at the College of Engineering Amphitheater. 

The event was a product of a partnership with the Sangguniang Kabataan Council of Barangay Ubaldo D. Laya, joined by various participants from Kauban Youth Collectives, students of the same program, and youth leaders across the barangay, including Tubod.

From a final requirement of their Disaster and Mental Health course, the event extends its reach at a junction of service and personal wellness which is often at the backseat of every discussion of stewardship.

According to Asst. Prof. Jean Taypa, extension coordinator of the Psychology Department and the class’ course professor, the concept draws relevant reference from the country’s disaster response where leaders, in any capacity, front these stressful times. 

“It’s difficult to extend help to others if you yourself are tired and overwhelmed. I think prioritizing mental health is truly the first step toward living a healthier and more fulfilling life,” she added.

The program was divided into three lectures imparted by the senior psychology students themselves. Interactive activities such as group processing and clay art making also allowed participants to reflect on takeaways through their active participation.

The “Mental Health Talk” portion emphasized the basics of mental health as a footing for productivity. The segment’s speaker, Chrisa Sialana, reiterated that the effective function of a team mirrors a personal level of function. 

In “Self-Awareness Talk”, Julianne Pacarot highlighted that the competence of a leader starts with acknowledging capabilities and areas of improvement within themselves.

“When you see yourself clearly, when you have a clear understanding of your own weakness and strength, you will be able to foster growth not just personally—you can foster growth within the team,” Pacarot explained.

Moreover, self-care, a highly misrepresented concept, was the concluding segment’s subject.  Sajedah Sambarani, in her talk, underscored the importance of healthy coping mechanisms that are crucial in navigating balance.

She also added that even a space for a pause in the hustle of everyday life could mean a lot to the deliberative nature of decision-making carried out by youth leaders.

Meanwhile, Maelly Mar Casas, participant and SK Councilor of Barangay Ubaldo D. Laya, expressed how well-received the event was on their end.

“It's not just you who can solve [problems], there are others who can help you,” she shared, detailing the second segment as her favorite part of the program, as it allowed her to recognize her limits in other aspects as a leader and eventually encouraged others to participate as well.

Similarly, Kauban Youth Collective President, Jhon Paul Boncales saw the collaboration as an opportunity for better leadership, anchored on awareness and managing the weight of responsibilities. 

Aljelyn Liwagon and Airlene Grace Lagas, head organizers of the event, extended their gratitude to their partners for making the event a success. As a parting message, Liwagon and Lagas expressed hope that the event set off pressure and inspire leaders to embody in principle that their own mental health is as important as the service they render to the community. 

This initiative’s fruition also inked support from the local government of Iligan, following the class’ pitch for sponsorship of the event. 

With Iligan City Sports Director King Belmonte gracing the event as a guest speaker, his brief talk assured participants and organizers alike of the assistance and support the local government is willing to offer, especially on matters concerning mental health.