OSAS Conducts Lecture-Forum on Mental Health issues

The Office of the Student Affairs Services conducted a series of Lecture-Forum on “Gender-Responsive Mental Health Services Towards a Successful Adjustment to College Life.” Held on October 15 and 17, 2024, at the Students’ Services Hall, the lecture was conducted in 4 sessions and participated by the four Colleges of the University.

Atty. Joseph Elias Geronimo Deveza together with his wife, Dr. Evony A. Deveza, both Mental Health advocates, discussed the stages of depression and some statistics on suicide cases that has been affecting not just students but people of different ages. According to a recent study, it is foreseen that by 2030, Mental Health illness will become the no.1 morbidity. As of now, suicide is the 4^th leading cause of death among people of 15 – 29 years old. 58 % of these suicide cases happen before a person reached the age of 50.  In 2019 alone, there were 703,000 people all over the world who died by suicide. Atty. Deveza added that study also shows that social media has also been considered as one factor that affects our mental health. It is important according to him that families should support each other.

On the other hand, Dr. Evony Deveza, a psychiatrist, discussed the signs and symptoms of depression, major depressive disorders and relaxation techniques that could help manage anxiety and other mental health disorders. According to her, anxiety disorders can run in families. It may be pass on by parents to their children or maybe acquired by genes. If anxiety is not addressed properly, it may become worse and fall into depression. Suicide is the last stage of depression and most often, cases happen to those who belong to dysfunctional families where they cannot find love. She reminded that if the symptoms are very prevalent, we should not hesitate to take actions starting with a simple conversation. Once it is confirmed it should be brought to the attention of the family, guardian, or expert.

After the lecture, the students were given the chance to ask questions and share experiences through an open forum.