With the aim of gathering together for monthly catch-up, work updates, and future planning of activities, the Faculty of Information and Communication Studies (FICS), UP Open University (UPOU) conducted its 4th Zoom MeetUPs on 18 September 2020.
Featuring “Mental Health and Well-Being” as the topic, this month’s talk centered on ways to beat online work-related stress brought by the pandemic. Ms. Christine Censoro, FICS Project Staff, served as its resource person.
The speaker began by comparing the rubber band to stress. She emphasized the importance of not stretching oneself too far, which could lead to burn out. She also detailed the common warnings and signs that someone is stressed, followed by strategies to combat stress. These strategies include tracking one’s stressors, meditation (e.g. use of apps for mindfulness and relaxation, arts for destressing), developing healthy living (e.g. proper diet, adequate and restful sleep), switching off social media, and getting support or professional help when necessary.
During the open forum, a staff inquired regarding tips for effective counseling when someone undergoes burnout or depression. In response, Ms. Censoro highlighted the value of listening and being understanding. She learned from her counseling class that asking “What can I do for you?” or “How can I help you” and having emotional stability are more powerful ways of showing empathy and helping others than directly giving unsolicited advice. Afterwards, another staff shared her coping strategies from stress like journaling, which aids in clarifying her thoughts and acts as relief from distress.
Ms. Censoro ended the talk with relieving words from Joena San Diego: “If you’re tired, it’s okay to admit that you need rest. If you’re overwhelmed, it’s okay to admit you need help. If you don’t know what to do, it’s okay to admit you’re lost. It’s okay. You’re not called to be well all the time. Rest, ask, help, and continue to grow better.”
Notably, Ms. Emely Amoloza, University Extension Associate and FICS MeetUPs proponent, started the monthly get together by asking everyone regarding one lesson that the quarantine taught them. Answers range from valuing health, appreciation of cherishing relationships during physical gatherings, and gratitude for having work or source of income despite being in these challenging times.
This month’s MeetUPs evidently helped the staff members to reconnect, learn from one another and appreciate taking care of their mental health, an invaluable thing that would boost their effectiveness in continually serving the university.
Sustainable Development Goals
Written by Efraime Cruz
Edited by Emely Amoloza & Joane V. Serrano
#UPOpenUniversity
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