MENTAL Health has always been my favorite topic. Every time I am asked to give a talk related to it, I never say no. As the WHO noted, mental health is more than just the absence of mental disabilities. Hence, mental health, I agree, is as important as physical health.

Last October 25, 2021, I was invited to speak about “Mental Health Talk: Parenting and Managing Children at Home Amidst Covid-19 Pandemic” by the Department of Education, particularly Governor Vicente Duterte National High School. And honestly, I got more excited when I learned that Invited participants are not only the parents but also the students, teachers, and administrators.

Let me share the content of the webinar. Of course, mental health (kalusugang pangkaisipan) was presented most easily, avoiding medical terms and culture-bound statements. The power to empathize with others, be flexible, and cope with adverse life events and the massive roles of parents were also emphasized. All are essential, as most are adjusting to this new normal life due to the Covid pandemic.

The need for parents to invest in self-care was also highlighted. Taking care of their mental health is essential for them to take care of their children. As such, parents should know how to juggle caring for their children, doing household chores while completing their own daily job responsibilities.

Furthermore, it is helpful that parents stay positive even when struggling to keep the family functioning during this difficult pandemic. Focusing on what one is grateful for can help, like a happy moment with your kids or a beautiful morning shared with your husband while watering the plants. It is so true that when we think about the experience for which we are glad, it can enhance our sense of well-being.

On the other hand, parents may have difficulties handling their children, getting anxious with the pandemic effects or the “stay at home” quarantine guideline. Kids may feel isolated and sad, and their common question is -- will their school ever return to normal? It will be difficult for kids to feel motivated, and they may not work on their school requirements. In all of these, parents must maintain a warm and loving relationship with their kids. Finding ways to ease kids’ boredom while at home can help.

Oh, I hope that the participants have learned from the webinar and remember that people cannot give what they do not have. So, it is essential to know, particularly for parents, that there is a need to take care of themselves before fully caring for their children.

To end, I am thankful to all parents for finding time to stay in that one hour talk and to Ms. Lera Jo G. Gamutan, RGC, SHS Guidance Counselor, for allowing me to share about caring for mental health in this current pandemic crisis. I hope that this talk will contribute to creating a world informed of the essentials of mental health. Thereby protecting, promoting, and building a positive self and environment.