HUNDREDS of Thomasians took part in a “mental health parade” on Friday as part of Psychology Week, where they were encouraged to advocate for mental health awareness.
Psychology students, members of university-wide organizations, faculty members, and students enrolled in the courses Understanding the Self and Mental Health and Psychosocial Support for Disaster Preparedness joined the event, which was organized by the UST Department of Psychology and UST Psychology Society.
In his opening remarks, Dean Rey Donne Papa of the College of Science, which houses the Department of Psychology, urged students to prioritize their mental well-being while studying at UST.
“Let’s all remember that taking care of yourself is important,” he said. “Make sure that you use this opportunity to, first, be happy, and second, to protect your advocacies pertaining to mental health.”
“And third, be agents for other people to improve their mental health.”
Participants carried colorful props and banners with uplifting messages that highlighted Sustainable Development Goals and mental health advocacies.
Others dressed in costumes and incorporated creative elements and gimmicks, including block cheers, free stickers, snacks, and even hugs.
“People had the opportunity to just sit down, paint, and figure out a way to realize what was on our minds together. I loved being a part of it,” psychology freshman Benedict Pami said. “Just taking notice of the effort each block put into their walk was heartwarming.”
Heloise Fabricante, a psychology sophomore, described the march as “inclusive and enjoyable.”
“It seemed to me that everyone, including myself, enjoyed the process of creating and organizing our banners and advocacies,” she said. “Everyone had smiles on their faces while participating in the parade.”
In his closing remarks, Assoc. Prof. Rodel Canlas of the Department of Psychology said the parade was a reminder that Thomasians are not alone in their struggles.
“Ang pinagsama-samang boses ng mga estudyante at guro ngayon ay upang iparating na pagdating sa mental health problems, hindi kailangan ang indibidwal ay mag-isa,” he said.
(The collective voice of students and teachers today is a reminder that no one should face mental health problems alone.)
The parade, which lasted approximately one hour, started at the UST Grandstand, covering various campus grounds, before concluding with a closing ceremony, featuring performances from the UST Yellow Jackets and UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe.
The mental health parade was first initiated in 2019. with reports from Marigela Isabel R. Cirio
