Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
To promote open conversations on mental health, a seminar focused on Suicide Awareness and Prevention was held on December 21, 2023, at the University Convention Center.
Citing the steady rise of incidents of suicide on a national and global scale, Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension, Dr. Alan P. Dargantes in his welcome message, highlighted the importance of the seminar in deepening oneโs understanding of suicide and knowing the ways to prevent it.
โAs parents, as colleagues, as administrators, as teachers, as friends, it is our responsibility to help those who are in need particularly those who are suffering from mental illness,โ Dr. Dargantes said.
Office of Student Affairs and Services Director, Dr. Leo G. Labrador, was the subject matter expert. A registered clinical psychologist, Dr. Labrador saw the seminar as an opportunity to finally freely discuss the topic which has been considered taboo for the longest time. He also emphasized how creating awareness plays a vital role in coming up with sound solutions.
โAwareness is very basic because awareness precedes understanding and once we understand that particular concept or subject matter or issue then what will follow is possible intervention,โ Dr. Labrador said.
Furthermore, Dr. Labrador debunked common myths and corrected misconceptions about suicide. He also showed the statistics on suicide in the country and noted that the numbers are continuously rising especially after the global pandemic. He added that this increase could be attributed to better reporting of suicide cases.
Moreover, Dr. Labrador enumerated the signs to look out for when it comes to suicide. He also reminded everyone to take these signs seriously.
โAll suicidal statements should be taken seriously. If a person communicates that he wants to die, we have to take it seriously,โ Dr. Labrador advised.
Also, Dr. Labrador listed the factors that drive people to commit suicide and the ways to help those at risk. Lastly, he wrapped up his lecture with the different steps for the university to create a comprehensive policy in addressing the issue. [Johnica Chantal G. Montero]
