by Kristin Jesha Mari A. Sandig, AB Mass Communications 4

CPU believes in giving a mental health break to its teachers and students once a week.

One topic that was almost always overlooked in the past was mental health. It was sadly disregarded. But that changed when our university implemented the Mental Health Wednesday — a single day in the week where students can recharge their batteries. It is a necessity and has reaped positive consequences.

In Utah and Oregon they have allowed students to take mental health days as an excuse for absences. It was in 2018 when Utah passed a bill that allowed students to take a mental health day. They have accepted that students get burned out. This was a response to the rising rate of depression and suicide of young people in the USA. With the Mental Health Law already instituted in our country since June 21, 2018, it has progressed our country’s opinion on Mental Health a bit. It is great that Central Philippine University recognizes the mental health struggles of students and teachers, and started the once-a-week Mental Health Day for the undergraduate colleges. Indeed, it has become a day when students can relax from their school work and recharge for the next few days in the school week. This is a brilliant move considering the tough season of our lives caused by the pandemic.

Others would say that it is not difficult for students because they are just staying at home and attending classes online. That comment is insensitive and does not know of the real struggles brought about by online classes. Well, there is the disconnection. This is not just about internet disconnection, but the lack of human connectivity during this School Year. We were locked away in our homes, and we couldn’t see our friends and relatives. We lost people during this time and some of us couldn’t even say goodbye. We have parents who sadly lost their jobs and resulted in putting more gray clouds above our heads. Not only does this impact the students but our teachers are facing the same difficulties as well.

This mental health program of our University is a sign of the Administration’s recognition of the need to take care of the emotional, psychological, spiritual, and social well-being of students. For the students and incoming parents, who are starting to seek a school next year, this program will show them that CPU cares about mental health. And of course, CPU is a great choice for it really provides Exemplary Christian Education for Life.