SLSU conducts Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Activity for Teachers of Guadalupe NHS

In response to the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 Pandemic and Typhoon Odette, the Institute of Arts and Sciences undertook a four-month initiative aimed at enhancing the psychological well-being of teachers at Guadalupe National High School in Maasin City. Led by Mona Rea Cabalo, Allan Abiera, and Adel Grace Gaudicos, the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Activity had specific objectives, including conducting lecture discussions on mental health, introducing stress and burnout management strategies, facilitating the creation of individual well-being goals, and assisting in designing mental health support plans for the workplace/school.

The activity, based on the school's request, received approval after a needs-assessment survey, and a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) solidified the collaboration. Significant outcomes included the creation of personalized wellness plans and proposed ideas for fostering a mentally healthier workplace. While the activity successfully improved stress and coping levels, burnout levels showed no significant change, highlighting the need for further exploration of contributing factors. The findings feature the importance of prioritizing teachers' mental health through ongoing initiatives, leading to recommendations such as establishing a Teachers' Service Center (TSC), implementing concrete programs on wellness, and exploring additional contributing factors.

Ultimately, the MHPSS Activity at Guadalupe National High School serves as a compelling call to action for educational institutions to prioritize the long-term well-being of their educators.