Taking care of our mental health

Riza U. Policarpio

THE COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted our lives all of a sudden. Our normal routines were cut off so abruptly that we did not really have time to make any adjustments.

This has taken a toll on all of us, emotionally and mentally. As part of the Education sector, we need to take care of our mental health to be able to function properly and lead our learners.

The Department of Education acknowledged the extraordinary pressure we are all going through in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In view of this, the agency held a psychosocial support session where the importance of ensuring the psychosocial wellbeing of leaders was discussed.

According to the DepEd, it is important for leaders to take care of their well-being because this is where they get their energy to serve.

Given the current situation and prevailing uncertainties, stress and sadness are normal reactions to an abnormal event, while personal and professional responsibilities while working from home can be difficult and overwhelming.

It is normal to feel stress and tension given the current situation, but we have to manage this and maintain resilience despite difficulties.

It is the Department’s advocacy to look after one’s mental health during the current public health situation and so far, the agency has done a good job of this.

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The author is Project Development Officer

I/ Youth Formation Coordinator