Written by Esther Masielle Flores
On October 15, 2024, the University of Baguio High School (UBHS) Faculty participated in an enlightening talk entitled “ Self-care for UB High School Teachers: Prioritizing Mental Health in the Workplace”. This event took place at the Legacy Hall, Legacy Building, University of Baguio. The event was organized in celebration of Mental Health and Wellness Month and coincided with the Teachers’ Day celebration of the UBHS Department.
The guest speaker for the session was Ms. Kate Marie C. Junio, RPsy, a Clinical Psychologist and an affiliate Psychotherapist at Psych Up: The Therapy Center. Her expertise provided valuable insights into the importance of self-care among educators, particularly in a high-stress environment like teaching.
The session covered several crucial topics aimed at enhancing teachers’ mental health. Ms. Junio emphasized that teachers often prioritize their students’ needs over their own, leading to burnout and stress. Recognizing the importance of self-care is essential for maintaining both personal well-being and professional effectiveness.
The discussion highlighted that self-care is not merely indulgence but a necessary practice to sustain mental health. It involves proactive measures to manage stress and enhance emotional resilience. Ms. Junio outlined four key types of self-care: Physical care, emotional care, professional care and social care.
The engagement of the faculty members underscored a collective commitment to prioritizing mental health within the educational community. By participating in such discussions, teachers can better equip themselves to manage their well-being while effectively supporting their students.



The final segment focused on strategies for creating a mentally healthy work environment. This includes fostering open communication about mental health issues, implementing wellness programs, and encouraging teachers to take breaks and utilize available resources.
The talk on self-care was not just an event but a significant step toward fostering a culture of mental health awareness at UBHS. As educators navigate the challenges of their profession, prioritizing self-care becomes essential for sustaining their passion for teaching and ensuring a supportive learning environment for their students.
This event aligns closely with the UN SDG 3 which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages emphasizing the importance of mental health as part of overall health and well-being.
The session also included a question and answer segment that allowed the faculty members to engage directly with Ms. Junio and discuss the practical application of mental health strategies in the educational setting.
At the end of the talk, Dr. Marivic B. Mutong, the school principal thanked Ms. Junio for the significant sharing and awarded the certificate of recognition and token of appreciation.