To foster mental wellness in academic spaces, South Philippine Adventist College (SPAC) held a Mental Health Workshop on April 16, 2025, at the SPAC Gymnasium. With the theme “Managing Mental Health Crisis: Prevention, Immediate Response, and Post-Crisis Care,” the event was organized by the Office of the Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) through the Guidance and Counseling Center (GCC) and is sponsored by the Adventist Mental Health Professionals Association (AMHA) under the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SePUM).

The workshop aimed to equip faculty and staff with practical knowledge and skills in managing mental health issues within school and office settings. Further, it focused on creating healthier learning environments and preparing employees to respond with compassion and competence to mental health challenges.

Two experts led the sessions, namely, Ms. Louiela Jane C. Angcon, RPm, shared insightful discussions on managing mental health distress, including its causes, symptoms, and the necessary immediate response. Her lecture emphasized the importance of early recognition and prompt intervention when dealing with mental health concerns, especially in academic settings.

While Mr. Hexcel Andreu G. Khua, RPm, RPsy, the Clinical Psychologist at the Hoffen Clinic Center for Mental Health and Psychosocial Development, discussed preventive programs and post-crisis care strategies that institutions can implement to build resilience among students and staff. He also shared practical strategies that schools can put into place, making sure these align with national mental health policies and government laws.

After each lecture, participants joined reflective workshops where they acted out role plays based on scenarios presented by the speakers. These hands-on sessions allowed the faculty and staff to apply what they learned and practice effective responses in a supportive setting.

This initiative reflects SPAC’s commitment to creating a Christ-centered learning environment where mental health is recognized as vital to holistic education and service.