The Covid-19 pandemic puts everyone at risk as the enemy (virus) is unseen and no one is exempted from contracting it.
Consequently, while under quarantine, people remain anxious and insecure about their survival and the near future’s uncertainty. Frontliners are stressed, afraid, and feel discriminated against for their work. These scenarios put a toll on people’s mental health.
The Wellbeing Cluster PH of the Central Visayas regional DRRM hub has started providing psychoeducation and information service to the general quarantined publics to help them deal with the situation and preserve their wellbeing.
The said service is offered through iCARE* Mental Health Expo, which goes live on the Wellbeing Cluster PH’s Facebook page every Tuesday and Friday, 8:00-9:00 PM.
The first talk on Life HAC (Hope Amidst Crisis) was conducted last April 17 and 28.
- “Virtual Mental Health & Psychosocial Support” with Cebu-based Sameera Sachdev, certified international mental health and wellness coach affiliated with Gestalt Wellness Institute-Southeast Asia
A short discussion on hope and what we can do to acknowledge it within us amidst the pandemic and a “new normal” situation, its relevance, and simple activities we can do to really see the brighter side of the situation.
- “Limited Benefit” with Sameera Sachdev
A discussion on how we can gain power or control over the situation, highlighting the importance of Appreciation, and the wisdom of not judging ourselves but appreciating what we can still improve.
Both virtual talks garnered 2,000-3,000 viewers from different location.
The Wellbeing Cluster PH FB page continuously shares information on mental health and wellbeing services from the service providers.
Partner organizations above are the regional DRRM hub, CENVISNET, iCARE Mental Health Expo Team, Gestalt Wellness Institute – Southeast Asia, and Department of Health.
*iCARE stands for Information connection, awareness, response, and embrace.
By: Lenbi Laborte, Central Visayas Network of NGOs (CENVISNET)