Assumption University Graduate School of Psychology Mental Health Awareness Day 2016 "Psychological First Aid"

Assumption University Graduate School of Psychology and Assumption University Counseling Services held the annual World Mental Health Day at the University's Bangna Campus on the 13th of October 2016. The goal of this event is to spread awareness on the importance of mental health and help reduce stigma so that people can have access to mental health care as soon as possible and be able to improve their lives.

This year's theme "Psychological First Aid" is very timely in connection to the various crisis and challenges we face in our world today. And although going through difficult as well as confusing times is but very common in our lives, this should not hinder us from living  our lives to the fullest. Mental health care is important because it helps us make better choices and supports us become resilient in times of crisis.

As school counselors we are also aware that one of the most challenging part of a person's life is going through the demands and pressure of being a student in keeping up with the University's expectations and standards. And although a great number of students are coping well with these demands and have maintain a positive outlook in life, others need support specially with learning how to adapt positive coping skills.

Thus, giving importance to the mental health of the students is important so that they can be guided through self discovery and become aware of their strength as individuals and be able to positively cope with the challenges they face.

The annual Mental Health Awareness Day provided an opportunity for students and non-student participants a chance to an open conversation about mental health. And the school psychologist together with the interns provided information on the common mental health problems such as anxiety, stress, positive psychology as well as other issues students face in their daily life.

Different types of psychology testing were also available such as the Career Interest Survey, Right/Left Brain Dominance Test, the VAK Learning Style Self-Assessment Questionnaire, and the Cohen Perceived Stress.

The counseling psychologist and the interns also provided information on the test results and invited the students and participants to visit the school counseling center to talk more regarding their concerns and the benefits of mental health care.

The event turn out to be a success and a huge number of students came and took the psychological test and also participated in an interactive dialogue with the counselors.

The event was also graced and honored by the presence of  Bro. Dr. Bancha Saenghiran, President-Rector of Assumption University of Thailand. Bro. Bancha shared his insights about life and also inspirational thoughts for a better life.

The event was made possible because of the support and leadership of the graduate school of psychology students, faculty and staff, Assumption University Suvarnabhumi Campus staff and the Assumption University Counseling Center Services interns.

Lastly, a peaceful and balance life is possible. And know that help is always available. It is very important that you seek professional mental health care and know that there is dignity in reaching out for help. Let me encourage you to talk to your psychotherapist or counselors about your concerns and learn more about the importance of mental health in your life.

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Me Before You Decoded

Recently, I have come across a debate on the movie that has swept our feet into an ecstasy of love, chemistry and romance in its 21st century plot. And while I too gush over the hormone induced thrill of its twist I noticed that there is something missing, and no I am not talking about the morals of assisted suicide or  the rights to decide when to end life no not even going there not at all. But while the cheerful and bubbly Louisa Clark at the found herself going for her dreams, I mourn for the lost hope. Then I wonder, if only and if only mental health have been given a little role will it end differently?

While I can't speak for everybody, it is but understandable that often times the cheapest end to  life for a person that has become angry, moody, bitter and disabled would seem a better option as opposed to preserving a life which would only cost so much more than living a lifestyle of an average person. But what about the person's rights to a positive, productive and encouraging life? or is it ending life the convenient option?

Stephen Hawking once said, "I have noticed even people who claim everything is predestined, and that we can do nothing to change it, look before they cross the road." the point taken is, there is always something we can do about it. And this doesn't just include people who are confined to a wheelchair for the rest of their lives but for anyone who succumb to a life threatening experience or the trauma of surviving everyday and the important of mental health care. Living a positive and a life full of hope is still an option and We Can Do Something About it.

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Mental Health Awareness 2015: Dignity in Mental Health

The 10th of October was World Mental Health Awareness Day and the Graduate School of Psychology Assumption University of Thailand was happy to take  part along with the student volunteers to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and our responsibility as psychology students and counselors to help decrease stigma about seeking mental health support on this year's theme "Dignity in Mental Health."

In connection to this, we set up a booth at The Assumption University Bangna Campus to raise awareness among the undergraduate students and assist them with free testing and interactive activities.

This year it is also the aim of the world health organization to stop the stigma and that people with mental health condition can be able to live with dignity as well as provide them with sufficient support. The aim is to be able to provide healthcare professionals with appropriate and adequate training to be able to respond to every need.

Every year, the Graduate School of Psychology, Assumption University of Thailand helps create public awareness and reaches out to the younger generation so they can be informed about the importance of mental healthcare and to seek support when needed. 

Qualified volunteers assisted the students as well as some of the staff take free testing on stress, happiness and provided them with information and follow up assistance should there be any questions regarding the result of the test.

There was also a movie presentation about suicide prevention, body image and depression as well as information on how and where to seek help. We also hand out bookmarks with positive affirmation and useful school supplies to serve as positive reinforcements for their participation.

The students also took part in interactive activities such as writing positive affirmation and sharing it on our "what makes you happy" board. They also took part in our survey as well as come by the booth to ask and talk about mental health related issues and how can they, as young people be able to help raise awareness.

We were also graced with the presence of distinguished psychology professors and counselors from the student affairs who also provided us with more information regarding possible collaboration, workshops and symposiums which would benefit the students.

All in all, we are very happy for the positive outcome of the event. The students as well as some of the staff from Assumption University of Thailand Bangna Campus welcome the team with warmth and although the students were busy with their exams, some of them came by to show their support.

The team had a wonderful experience reaching out to the public, providing information about the importance of mental health and by showing that as future counselors we are prepared to take part on the band of mental health professionals help stop stigma and assure that people with mental health condition will be provided with appropriate support and too live with dignity. Job well done team! your effort and service are so much appreciated as well as to our professors and adviser who gave their support to make this event possible. 

“Life is a kaleidoscope. Turn your head a different angle and see it a whole new way.”
–Anonymous

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