San Beda College Alabang, through its Counseling and Career Development Services (CCDS), has unveiled the Bedan Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Framework, a comprehensive approach aimed at fostering mental well-being within the Bedan community. Grounded in the principles of prevention, intervention, recovery, and post-evaluation, this initiative reinforces the institution’s commitment to promoting a supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff.
(above photos: Youth Eucharistic Society members join an overnight youth camp which broaden their understanding about the Eucharist and at the same time provided the participants an opportunity for mental well-being by allowing them to step away from daily stresses and engage in meaningful social and spiritual activities.)
A Holistic Approach to Mental Health
Mental health is a vital aspect of overall well-being, affecting an individual’s ability to cope with stress, develop personally, and contribute meaningfully to society. Research highlights the critical role of social support in mitigating loneliness and reducing the stigma surrounding help-seeking behaviors, particularly among Filipino students. Acknowledging this, the Bedan Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Framework integrates mental, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being in its approach, ensuring a Benedictine-centered and data-driven response to mental health challenges.
At the heart of the framework are three core objectives:
- Be Aware – Raising awareness about mental health and the factors that contribute to maintaining it.
- Be Well – Empowering individuals by strengthening personal resilience and support systems.
- Be Kind – Cultivating a community that actively supports those struggling with mental health concerns.
Guiding Principles: A Commitment to Mental Well-Being
This framework is built on six key principles:
- Holistic Support – Recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, social, and physical well-being.
- Responsive and Empowering – Proactively addressing students’ developmental and mental health needs.
- Benedictine-Oriented – Aligning mental health initiatives with Bedan core values to foster resilience.
- Statutory Compliance – Ensuring all programs adhere to RA 11036 (Mental Health Act) and RA 12080 (Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act).
- Culturally Sensitive – Incorporating Filipino collectivist values to create effective, community-driven programs.
- Evidence-Based – Using data-driven strategies to enhance mental health outcomes.
A Collaborative Effort Across the Institution
The CCDS serves as the primary coordinating body for mental health initiatives within the school, ensuring alignment with the guidelines set by DepEd and CHED. However, mental health support extends beyond the CCDS—all school personnel play an essential role in fostering a mentally healthy environment. This includes academic departments, administrative staff, secretarial teams, health and safety officers, and general services personnel.
By implementing this integrated and proactive framework, San Beda College Alabang strengthens its mission of cura personalis, or care for the whole person, ensuring that every Bedan has access to the support and resources necessary for optimal mental well-being.
This initiative is more than just a program—it is a commitment to fostering a culture of awareness, wellness, and kindness, where mental health is valued, prioritized, and supported at every level of the institution.
