OSAS BED-GTO conducts Besties’ Troop Support Club’s 2nd Training on Mental Health

The BTS Club conducted its succeeding training session focused on emotional awareness, stress management, and peer support skills to strengthen members’ capacity to support student well-being.

Student Support Staff Sherie Anne Gayeta led the session by discussing how emotions can feel fragmented and difficult to understand, noting that putting these pieces together allows individuals to better recognize what they are feeling. She revisited the previous training on self-awareness and emphasized that understanding oneself is essential in developing empathy for others.

Gayeta also clarified common misconceptions about mental health, explaining that poor mental health does not automatically equate to mental illness. She discussed how to recognize when stress becomes a serious concern by identifying physical and behavioral signs that interfere with daily functioning and relationships.

To reinforce the discussion, Gayeta facilitated an activity where members analyzed different scenarios to determine whether situations reflected normal stress or required additional support. Most participants successfully identified the correct responses, demonstrating their growing understanding of stress-related concerns. She stressed that while stress is normal, prolonged and unmanaged stress requires proper intervention to prevent burnout and emotional exhaustion.

Guidnance Counselor Charmaine San Miguel later facilitated a group activity that challenged members to apply peer support skills to scenarios involving family, career, and peer-related concerns. Working in groups, members demonstrated effective communication, problem-solving, and empathy while explaining how they addressed each situation.

The training concluded with active collaboration and reflection, as members showcased essential peer facilitation skills needed to provide support within the school community.

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The session reflects the school’s commitment to Mindfulness and Service by equipping students with skills that promote mental health awareness and peer support. It also demonstrates Unity and Excellence as learners collaborate to foster a safe, compassionate, and student-centered community.

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – By promoting mental health awareness, stress management, and peer support.

SDG 4: Quality Education – Through life-skills training that supports holistic student development.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – By encouraging inclusive and supportive peer interventions within the school community.