Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) remains steadfast in fostering a safe, compassionate, and mentally healthy learning environment for its students. Recognizing that student’s well-being is essential to academic success and professional productivity, EVSU has developed a proactive and comprehensive approach to mental health support in alignment with national directives and global sustainable development goals.

EVSU actively promotes positive mental health through regular awareness campaigns, seminars, and capability-building programs addressing stress management, emotional resilience, and suicide prevention. Through the University Guidance Services Office, the university provides accessible and confidential counseling, psychosocial support, and referral services for students, faculty, and staff. Trained guidance counselors and peer facilitators ensure that individuals receive professional care in a safe, non-judgmental environment.

Access to free and confidential counseling services is made readily available across all EVSU campuses through licensed guidance counselors and trained mental health advocates. The university maintains open referral pathways to accredited mental health service providers and strategically signposts students to government-supported psychosocial services when specialized care is required. Peer support groups, wellness activities, and faith-based support initiatives also serve as safe spaces for expression, healing, and community building.

Furthermore, EVSU integrates mental health safeguards into its institutional policies, ensuring that crisis response protocols, well-being check systems, and mental health accommodations are implemented to protect vulnerable individuals. Through continuous staff training and strengthened partnerships within the public health ecosystem, EVSU remains committed to nurturing a culture that prioritizes mental wellness and reduces stigma surrounding mental health concerns.

With these sustained efforts, EVSU reinforces its mission to provide holistic quality education—ensuring that every student thrives in an environment where mental health is valued, supported, and championed.

STAR-C Program: A Holistic Development Seminar Series for Student Well-Being at EVSU

Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), through its Guidance Services Office, launched the STAR-C Program—a virtual seminar series designed to support the academic achievement, personal development, and mental well-being of EVSU students. This initiative reflects the university’s commitment to providing accessible and proactive guidance services that empower EVSUnistas to thrive throughout their college journey.

By offering flexible online delivery, the STAR-C Program ensures that students from all campuses can participate regardless of physical or geographical barriers. Each session brings expert speakers and practical insights, while participants who meet engagement requirements are awarded e-certificates as evidence of learning.

Survive and Thrive: Empowering EVSU Students for Academic Success

Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), through its Guidance Services Office, continues to champion student success and holistic development by organizing the motivational webinar Survive and Thrive on October 4, 2024. Guided by the empowering message, “Your future is created by what you do today, not tomorrow,” the event was designed to equip students with the skills, mindset, and strategies necessary to excel in their academic endeavors.

Held via Google Meet from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, the webinar provided an engaging and supportive learning environment for first-year and continuing students who are navigating the challenges of college life. The keynote speaker, Ms. Meraflor O. Pecore — an esteemed EVSU alumna who graduated Magna Cum Laude and was honored as the Most Outstanding Student of 2024 — shared her personal success story and practical approaches to academic excellence, resilience, and time management. Her insights served as a powerful reminder that determination and proactive effort are key to future achievement.

The event not only inspired participants but also strengthened peer motivation and community spirit within the university. Students who completed the required attendance and evaluation forms received a free e-certificate, reinforcing their commitment to self-improvement.

Through initiatives like Survive and Thrive, EVSU demonstrates its ongoing dedication to empowering students to reach their full potential. By providing relevant guidance and motivational support, the university ensures that every EVSUnista is equipped with the tools to succeed, persist, and flourish throughout their college journey and beyond.

Tech Balance: Digital Detox for Productivity — Building Healthy Tech Habits at EVSU

As part of the university’s ongoing commitment to mental well-being and personal development, Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), through the Guidance Services Office, conducted an online seminar titled Tech Balance: Digital Detox for Productivity on October 25, 2024. This initiative recognized the growing challenges faced by students in managing screen time and maintaining focus in the digital age, especially within an academic environment that heavily relies on technology.

Held via Google Meet from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, the webinar guided participants in evaluating their digital consumption and exploring practical strategies to minimize distractions while maximizing productivity. The session was led by Dr. Cherie Guy B. Giray, RGC, LPT — Head of the EVSU Admission, Guidance, and Counseling Services Office — who shared expert insights on balancing virtual engagement with mindful living. Her presentation highlighted the importance of digital moderation as a key element of mental health and academic success.

This activity formed the second installment of the university’s STAR-C Program — a seminar series designed to empower students in adapting to college life while fostering resilience and emotional well-being. Following the September webinar, Survive and Thrive: Essential Tips for College Success, the “T” component focused specifically on promoting healthier digital habits and enhanced self-management.

Participants who completed the required attendance and evaluation forms received a free e-certificate as recognition of their active engagement in their personal wellness journey.

Through this purposeful initiative, EVSU continues to provide proactive support for students in navigating modern challenges, ensuring they develop not only academic competence but also sustainable well-being. By encouraging digital balance, the university nurtures a healthier and more productive student community prepared to succeed both online and offline.

Adapt & Overcome: Building Your Toolkit of Coping Skills A Mental Wellness Initiative for EVSUnistas

In its continued commitment to fostering a mentally resilient campus community, Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), through the Guidance Services Office, organized a virtual seminar titled “Adapt & Overcome: Building Your Toolkit of Coping Skills.” Held on November 29, 2024, the session aimed to equip students with practical and empowering strategies for managing stress, facing challenges, and cultivating personal growth.

The online seminar forms part of the University’s STAR-C Program, a mental health and personal development series designed to strengthen students’ emotional well-being and academic success. For the month of November, the STAR-C Program focused on the letter A – Adapt & Overcome, acknowledging that resilience and adaptive coping are vital to thriving in today’s dynamic learning environment.

EVSU was honored to have Ms. Normaec C. Ecija, RPm, RGC, as the keynote resource speaker. A Registered Guidance Counselor and Registered Psychometrician — and recently named Top 8 passer in the August 2024 Guidance Counselor Licensure Examination — Ms. Ecija brought valuable clinical and academic insight to help students better understand stress responses, identify healthy coping mechanisms, and build personalized resilience strategies.

Participants were encouraged to engage actively through pre- and post-assessments and evaluation tools, with those completing the full set of requirements receiving a FREE E-Certificate. The seminar was delivered via Google Meet, ensuring accessible support for students from all EVSU campuses.

This initiative reflects EVSU’s unwavering dedication to promoting mental health, providing access to support services, and empowering its community with skills for both academic and life success. As the STAR-C Program continues to unfold, EVSU remains steadfast in championing student well-being — helping every EVSUnista not just survive, but overcome and thrive.

Refuel Your Brain: Promoting Nutrition for Mental Wellness at EVSU

Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), through its Guidance Services Office, continues to advance holistic student development by integrating physical health and cognitive well-being into its Mental Health Awareness initiatives. On December 13, 2024, the university hosted an online seminar titled Refuel Your Brain: Nutrition & Mental Health, recognizing that what individuals consume directly influences their mood, focus, and overall psychological functioning.

Conducted via Google Meet from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, the session empowered participants to make healthier dietary choices that nourish both the body and the mind. The webinar featured Prof. Segundina Devota A. Dilao, MS, RND — Inaugural Head of EVSU’s Nutrition & Dietetics Department — who shared scientific insights on the connection between nutrition and mental health, including how balanced meals can improve cognition, emotional regulation, and academic performance. Her expertise provided students with practical strategies for sustaining healthy habits despite daily challenges and busy schedules.

This activity forms part of the university’s STAR-C Program, a continuing series dedicated to personal growth and resilience-building among EVSUnistas. Following the previous session, Adapt & Overcome: Building Your Toolkit of Coping Skills, the December installment focused on “R” for Refuel, reinforcing the importance of self-care through proper nourishment. Students who completed the attendance, evaluation, pre-test, and post-test requirements received a free e-certificate in recognition of their proactive participation.

By addressing both mental and nutritional wellness, EVSU strengthens its comprehensive approach to student support. The university remains committed to equipping students with knowledge and tools that promote long-term health, sharpened focus, and overall well-being — fueling success inside and beyond the classroom.

Suicide Prevention Awareness Seminar: Strengthening Support and Hope at EVSU

In observance of Suicide Prevention Month, Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), through the Guidance Services Office, reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding student well-being by organizing a Suicide Prevention Awareness Seminar on September 20, 2024. Centered on the message, “Your story isn’t over yet,” the online event aimed to raise awareness, reduce stigma surrounding mental health crises, and empower the EVSU community with supportive intervention skills.

Conducted via Google Meet from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, the session provided an important space for learning and advocacy. The university’s psychometrician, Mr. Christian Dave Broña, RPm, CMHT — a Certified Mental Health Trainer with AHA Psychological Services — served as the resource speaker. He discussed the warning signs of suicide risk, appropriate response strategies, and the vital importance of reaching out to individuals who may be struggling. His guidance emphasized that help is always available and that compassion and connection can save lives.

Participants who completed the necessary attendance and evaluation forms received a free electronic certificate, recognizing their active participation in the life-saving advocacy. The strong engagement demonstrated the EVSU community’s willingness to foster awareness and support systems that uphold mental health.

Mental Health Awareness Webinar: Prioritizing Mental Well-Being at EVSU

In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), through the Guidance Services Office, strengthened its commitment to supporting the psychological well-being of its students by hosting a free webinar titled Mental Health Awareness on October 18, 2024. This initiative aligned with the university’s advocacy that “your mental health is a priority,” ensuring that EVSU students have continuous access to mental health education and services.

The virtual session, conducted via Google Meet from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, provided an accessible platform for participants to deepen their understanding of mental health and learn practical strategies to maintain emotional balance and resilience. The event featured Mr. Christian Dave Broña, RPm, CMHT — University Psychometrician and Certified Mental Health Trainer from AHA Psychological Services — who shared his expertise on recognizing mental health concerns, promoting self-care, and contributing to a more compassionate and supportive campus environment. As the adviser of the EVSU Main Peer Facilitators’ Circle, Mr. Broña also emphasized the vital role of peer support in destigmatizing mental health challenges.

To encourage participation and engagement, attendees who completed both the webinar and evaluation form received a free electronic certificate. The strong turnout reflected the growing awareness within the EVSU community of the importance of mental wellness and collective responsibility in creating a safe space for dialogue and support.

Through initiatives like this mental health awareness webinar, EVSU reinforces its ongoing mission to advocate for well-being and make mental health care visible, accessible, and prioritized for every EVSUnista. The university remains committed to broadening these efforts with continuous capacity-building activities and strengthened support systems across its campuses.

Self-Care and Healthy Living: Strengthening Wellness Advocacy at EVSU-Tanauan Campus

As part of Eastern Visayas State University’s continued observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, the EVSU-Tanauan Campus organized an online learning session titled Self-Care and Healthy Living on October 25, 2024. This initiative highlighted the university’s ongoing commitment to nurturing both the mental and physical well-being of its students, emphasizing that a healthy mind and body form the core of a balanced and fulfilling life.

Held via Google Meet from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, the forum offered practical knowledge and holistic strategies for managing stress, developing positive routines, and prioritizing self-care amidst academic demands. The resource speaker, Dr. Mico May Regis-Cayaco—a licensed guidance counselor and mental health advocate—provided professional insights into maintaining wellness and building resilience in daily life. Her expertise helped empower participants to become more intentional about their emotional health and lifestyle choices.

Students were strongly encouraged to take part in this meaningful initiative, and those who completed the required attendance and evaluation forms received a free electronic certificate. The enthusiastic participation reflected the growing recognition across the university of the importance of mental health education and proactive self-management.

Through programs like this, EVSU-Tanauan Campus reinforces the university’s broader mission to cultivate supportive, informed, and health-conscious learning environments. By equipping students with essential self-care skills, EVSU continues to champion a holistic approach to development—ensuring that every EVSUnista has the tools to thrive academically and personally.

“It’s Okay to Not Be Okay”: EVSU-Ormoc Campus Hosts Mental Health Awareness Symposium

In solidarity with the nationwide advocacy for mental health, the Eastern Visayas State University – Ormoc Campus (EVSU-OC) held a meaningful Mental Health Awareness Symposium on March 14, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 NN at the New Technology Building. The event was made possible through the support of dedicated instructors, mental health practitioners, and student leader organizations from across the university departments.

Under the theme “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,” the symposium emphasized the importance of acknowledging one’s struggles and embracing help when needed. Through engaging discussions and interactive icebreaker activities, participants were encouraged to foster self-acceptance, build resilience, and recognize the value of emotional expression.

The resource speakers shed light on critical topics such as the signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, while highlighting the significance of early support and intervention. The key message of the event strongly resonated with the community:

“There is no HEALTH without Mental Health.”

By reinforcing that mental well-being is just as essential as one’s physical, emotional, and social health, the symposium inspired students to seek connection, break the stigma, and prioritize self-care.

EVSU-OC remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a caring and supportive campus environment — one where every student feels heard, valued, and empowered. Remember: Your struggles do not define you. Better days are ahead.

Free Hugs for Hope: EVSU Spreads Love for Suicide Prevention Month

To commemorate Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, the Peer Facilitators’ Circle of Eastern Visayas State University launched a heartwarming Free Hugs Activity held from September 18–20, 2024 at various university grounds. This three-day initiative focused on spreading positivity, comfort, and emotional connection among students and employees.

The activity highlighted the power of a simple gesture — a hug — to uplift spirits, reduce stress, and remind individuals that they are valued and never alone. By offering free hugs, the Peer Facilitators’ Circle fostered a supportive and compassionate campus atmosphere, encouraging everyone to look out for one another and share kindness in a meaningful way.

The Guidance Services Office extends its gratitude to the students, faculty, and staff who enthusiastically participated in spreading warmth and hope. Through this initiative, EVSU continues its commitment to advancing mental health awareness and building a community where care and empathy are always within reach.

Together, we can prevent suicide. Together, we can make a difference.