Psychology department crusades suicide prevention through “Banaag,” strolls aspiration for MSUans

Upholding the intent to promote welfare and haleness within the bounds of Mindanao State University – General Santos City (MSU-GSC), the Department of Psychology under the College of Social Sciences and Humanities (CSSH) carried out “Banaag: Walk of Hope” in observance of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, encouraging every student to walk and reflect while carrying a burning torch of hope and perseverance, last September 9.

With its implementation, the event reflected United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), advocating for good health and well-being (SDG 3), empowering quality education (SDG 4), prioritizing to reduce inequalities (SDG 10), and unity through partnerships for common goals (SDG 17).

© CSSH Students' Organization

Hearing the Lost

Ira Beyounce Magdaluyo, proponent of the said event, stated that Suicide Prevention Month, observed globally every September, motivated them to extend the initiative university-wide to address the often-unheard concerns of students from various colleges and organizations.

“In contrast to previous campaigns, which were typically one-day affairs, our initiative continues the campaigning for the entire month, guaranteeing that awareness is not only temporary but ongoing. In this manner, we can generate additional chances for communication, assistance, and recovery,” Magdaluyo stated.

Magdaluyo emphasized the role of awareness as a starting point, enabling students to feel validated and connected through the candle lighting and empowerment speeches.

“In addition to the symbolic elements that we had prepared, we also stimulate peer networks and facilitate access to support services within our campus; thus, the event can transition from symbolic action to real support thanks to this combination,” she emphasized.

Magdaluyo further pointed that similarly to many institutions, the department faced struggle with a shortage of mental health specialists, but through amplifying faculty voices and promoting empowerment speeches, the committee aimed  to create safe spaces and normalize discussions to break the stigma that still hinders many from speaking up

“Taking a stroll together encourages introspection, of which it also serves as a reminder that no one must bear their troubles alone, since we often take long walks in order to clear our mind, we embraced the idea of doing this all together. This is an emotional and physical act of solidarity that shows the community's support for people who have been impacted by suicide,” she expressed.

Magdaluyo clarified the envisioned path of the event, strengthening the campus mental health system by paving the way for peer support programs, early intervention measures, and the future institutionalization of annual awareness campaigns.

Magdaluyo highlighted the relevance of the said event, impending crucial essence in expanding the reach of the advocacy, with the promotion of month-long observance.

Candlelight of Hope

As the candle warmed the atmosphere of the university, the walk that started from the Office of Student Affairs and Services commemorated the impending need of lobbying mental health issues.

With heartfelt messages and active participation of different colleges and organizations of MSU-GSC, the program posed determination to ignite peace through the candle lighting ceremony.

The event also marked as the starting point in the celebration of Suicide Prevention Month in the university, encouraging MSUans to engage in the upcoming Suicide Prevention Talk, which will be conducted on September 24.