LA TRINIDAD, Benguet -- The Philippine Mental Health Association (PMHA) in collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH) through the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of the Municipality of La Trinidad, Benguet launched the Mental Health Community Based Program (MHCBP) on March 20 to 22, 2018 at the Strawberry Valley Hotel, Betag, La Trinidad, Benguet during the conduct of the MHCBP First Level Training.
Participants of the training were composed of different Barangay Captains, Kagawads on Health and the Barangay Health Workers from the 16 Barangay of La Trinidad.
Francis Buliyat Sr., chairman of the Baguio-Benguet Chapter Incorporation welcomed the participants of the program.
The 75 participants were coached on different topics about mental health.
The modules started with the participants’ journey in understanding their selves, how they can handle negative emotions, and how to communicate effectively.
This was followed by discussions and workshops about Kalusugang Pangkaisipan or Mental Health and Understanding Mental Illness.
The 3-days seminar concluded with the discussion on Understanding Stress and an experiential learning on the different stress management techniques that they can use and apply in their daily lives.
The next two levels are scheduled on April and May and the 4th level will be conducted in the 16 Barangays of the Municipality.
Another training is also slated for the Department Heads, Councilors and Rural Health Unit staff of the Municipality.
Such shows the willingness of the LGU in integrating a mental health program in their locality.
The MHCBP is a 4-level program that aims to provide awareness about mental health and mental disorders in the community through psycho education, skills building, and empowerment of mental health workers and community leaders.
It also encourages different people to join the advocacy in stopping the stigma about mental health and mental disorders and for them to have an open mind about the present situation and issues of mental health. (Saintel Davith Boien Santiago)