LUNA, Apayao – In response to the alarming increase in cases of mental health issues in the province, select personnel from the Provincial Health Office (PHO) of Apayao underwent a three day Peer Facilitator Training Workshop initiating the establishment of a Peer Support Group in each municipality to ensure effective interventions, particularly for students in need.
Initial consolidated report from the PHO showed that Apayao recorded 17 suicide-related deaths in the first semester of this year alone. Last year, the number of suicides cases reached 21.
The PHO in partnership with the Provincial Department of Health Office (PDOHO) recognizes the important role of Peer Support Groups in providing safe spaces for youth to share experiences, receive guidance, and foster resilience.
The training held from November 19 to 21, 2024 at Star Jewel, Luna gathered over 29 to be peer facilitators across the seven municipalities of the province.
The training is part of the Peer Support Group Playbook which features a comprehensive discussion regarding mental health and peer facilitation, individual group process, and referral systems and pathways.
The participants underwent extensive training to equip them with the necessary skills to lead and support their peers effectively. They are expected to form peer support groups, in which each peer support group is facilitated by a trained Peer Facilitator who leads and organizes activities.
In collaboration with local communities, the Peer Support Group aims to create a sustainable model for mental health advocacy, ensuring that youth in Apayao have the resources and support they need, providing much-needed support and fostering a culture of openness and healing within the community.
Governor Elias C. Bulut Jr., in his previous talks, reiterated quality and accessible mental health care services for all yApayaos in order to restrain and resolve early indications of suicidal thoughts and other mental health issues. By Joyce Arian Soria
