AJHS celebrates World Mental Health Day with ‘Wagi Kahit Sawi’ program

In solidarity with the global community, the Ateneo de Manila Junior High School commemorated World Mental Health Day yesterday, October 12, with a program held in the covered courts. The theme for this year's celebration was “Resiliency and Inclusivity in a Supportive Environment,” and was part of AJHS’ Guidance Week festivities.

The objectives of Guidance Week 2022’s celebration are the following: encourage students to become aware of and appreciate the personal resources they have gained in the face of adversity; provide a multi-media platform to model mental health practices; demonstrate how different disciplines can contribute to holistic wellness; promote a culture of resilience and inclusivity in the community; and allow students to engage in meaning-making as they move to the new normal.

The two-hour program labelled “Wagi Kahit Sawi” was held to celebrate the AJHS community’s resilience amidst the pandemic’s challenges. The first part was a panel discussion with several guests. Present to share their experiences and life challenges were Ateneo de Manila Senior High School students Ian Brix Nasam and Matteo Suzara, para-athlete Edison Badillo (a.k.a. the One-Legged Cyclist), and Vincent Morales, a former AJHS security guard whom students fondly called “Kuya Vince.” A psychologist from Ateneo Gender Hub, Joseph Eleut G. Violago, completed the cast. He offered perspectives on how the community can navigate challenges in light of the new normal and new legislation concerning gender-based issues. The second part of the program showcased the talents of both faculty and students.

The event was also promoted as “POSITIVITee Day” and encouraged students, faculty, staff, and administrators to come to school wearing bright-colored shirts that had inspirational statements/messages and/or positive symbols.

All in all, “Wagi Kahit Sawi” was a timely and provocative celebration of World Mental Health Day, one that deepened the AJHS’ life-affirming community spirit amidst the challenges of contemporary society.