Sa Labas ng Classroom (Outside the Classroom)

"You just have to have the guidance to lead you in the direction until you can do it yourself." - Tina Yothers

In this episode, Khalela, a registered guidance counselor, shares her observations regarding the challenges of multicultural and inclusive counseling. She also discusses the importance of openness and mindfulness. While we agree on the power of referral, we also talk about our hopes and dreams for the mental health scene in the country. Lastly, she gives a few reminders about how we can support family members, friends, and acquaintances who are currently experiencing emotional pains.

You may send a message to Ms. Khalela at bugan.khalela.cacho94@gmail.com.

Summary

There were three hundred four (304) police forces from the Philippine National Police who were chosen as respondents for the study. They were chosen through total population sampling, a type of purposive sampling technique that studies a population sharing a particular set of characteristics such as being police officers serving as forces designated in the field by the Philippine National Police.

This study measured police organizational and operational stress, evaluate the mental help-seeking attitudes of police officers, identify differences in their mental help-seeking attitudes and stress level according to age, gender, and rank classification.

Specifically, it sought answers to the following questions: 

1.  What is the level of police organizational and operational stress of the respondents?

2. What is the level of mental help-seeking attitude of the respondents?

3. What is the difference in the stress level and mental help-seeking attitudes of respondents when grouped according to age, gender, and rank classification

Questionnaires were used to measure these variables. The respondents were three hundred four (304) police officers serving as forces designated in the field by the Philippine National Police during the data gathering. The mean was used to determine the level of police organizational and operational stress; whereas, the T-Test was used to compare differences in the weighted means of the respondents’ levels of police stress and mental help-seeking attitudes according to age, gender, and rank.

Based on the analysis and interpretation of the gathered data, the following are the general findings: (a) The police forces have low levels of stress arising from inherent aspects of work, the performance of their tasks, work and organizational environment; (b) Police forces have high positive attitudes towards seeking help from mental health professionals; (c) Stress levels of police forces were significantly influenced by gender. Female police officers feel more stress compared to males while there is no significant difference in their mental help-seeking attitudes. Stress levels of police forces and their mental help-seeking attitudes are not influenced by age. Rank classification has no significant effect on the level of stress of police forces towards integral aspects of work and attitude towards seeking professional mental help.

Based on the findings, the following are the derived conclusions: (1) The inherent aspects of work, the performance of tasks, work, and organizational environment are not perceived by police forces as stressful. (2) Police officers are open to seeking mental help from professionals. (3) Female police officers experience higher levels of organizational and operational stress than males. The age and rank of police officers are irrelevant to their attitudes towards seeking mental help from professionals.

"Do you know what a foreign accent is? It's a sign of bravery." - Amy Chua

Disclaimer: This episode contains themes related to isolation and grief.

In this episode, despite the time difference, Laila Balinggan shares snippets of her journey as an immigrant in Finland. She reminisces on the classroom experience that ignited the spark of interest in her to dream about studying abroad. She also talks about the major challenges she encountered while she was fulfilling her dream.

Check out Laila's business website here: https://designanddisrupt.co

"True friendship resists time, distance, and silence." - Isabel Allende

In this laughter-filled episode, James, Renan, and I visit memory lane as the guys talk about how their friendship started and how they maintain their friendship despite the distance. Nostalgia hits differently as we reflect on the years that passed since we met inside the classroom.

"Love isn't something natural. Rather it requires discipline, concentration, patience, faith, and the overcoming of narcissism. It isn't a feeling, it is a practice." - Erich Fromm

In this episode, Ish Navarro shares her insights about Erich Fromm's Art of Loving. She elaborates how Erich Fromm defines love, then initiates a palpable reflection about the way Filipinos express love. We also talk about the importance of community and Filipino Psychology, and how we can start loving better.

Check out Ish's projects:

The Wounded Healer: https://www.facebook.com/ishnavarroMHspeaker

The Wounded Healer Greenhouse:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/696890609000155

Paghilom Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5MWk7C4AcCT4pdnUv9Gyjr

Abstract:

Throughout the years, various studies have been conducted exploring families’ response to having gay children around the world with different cultures and sets of beliefs. However, little research has been conducted to explore the responses of the people in the Cordilleras, specifically Igorot families. This paper derives from an in-depth study of Igorot families' responses to having gay children using a phenomenological approach, structured interview guide, and narrative and thematic data analysis to obtain the data. This study explored the perspective of the Igorot gay child about the responses of their parents concerning their sexuality. This paper found that no cultural factors affected the parents’ response. In fact, Igorot families were fine with their child being gay without the interference of culture.

Keywords: Igorot; family; gay; culture; Torogi Taraki

Check the research details here: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/conf_shsrescon/2023/paper_ghi/1/?fbclid=IwAR1tMOydinhm7fkPgtQmmCgVRduBFAePxkn1hxU5UhLKSRq_SSsnClVH2ZY_aem_AX8isJztIfAWdUcT6AWetzM0TJE9w67ndoByPdla92goWt_GeYf-HDQolAnBgAuLGOs0POgYfSiRXSk1sj_Iur9S

"In order to build a rewarding employee experience, you need to understand what matters most to people." - Julie Bevacqua

In this episode, Jaimee Caldona-Ang, an HR practitioner with a decade of experience shares her insights about the field and the area of human resource that she finds the most joy in. She also reflects on memorable experiences, and gives aspiring HR professionals relatable advice.

"Student leaders need to put their personal agendas aside." - Kevin Ward

In this episode, Sherwin Ocampo reminisces his experiences as a former student leader. He shares how these experiences became pillars of his transition to a working adult. Aside from looking back at his college life, he encourages a shift in perspective towards dancing. I am definitely intrigued about the way he teaches dance!

"The successful warrior is the average man, with laser-like focus." - Bruce Lee

In this episode, one of my former students, Renan Ignacio, talks about the things that helped him passed the Board Licensure Exam for Psychometricians. He reiterated the importance of consistency and how the support of his loved ones fueled his motivation especially when the exam was drawing near. My heart is full hearing him reminisce about our Industrial Psychology class days. I am reminded, yet again, about how I miss my students :)

"If your compassion doesn't include yourself, it is incomplete." - Jack Kornfield

In this episode, Rennyvonne Fae Ledesma shares her insights about the importance of taking care of oneself before taking care of others. We talk about how we set boundaries as psychologists and teachers, and some signs we notice when we start to feel compassion fatigue and/or burnout.

Check out her page, The Mystic Psychologist (https://www.facebook.com/TheMysticPsychologist), for more details about her projects and events!

"Mental health problems don't define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain." -Matt Haig

Disclaimer: The episode contains themes related to suicidality. The episode also includes an unpleasant experience of the guest with a mental health professional. 

In support of the National Suicide Prevention Week (September 9-13) in the Philippines, Sa Labas ng Classroom will feature episodes that shed light about suicidality. If you think and/or feel that this episode is too heavy to listen to or that you are not entirely ready to listen to the episode, I encourage you to skip this episode. You may return to this episode when you feel better :)

Similarly, if you feel intense negative emotions after listening to this episode, you may send me an email (myra.g.gahid@gmail.com) so we can discuss about your feelings about the episode.

Should you be interested to seek help, you may also refer to the following links for organizations that offer services related to mental health:

Hotlines:

https://doh.gov.ph/NCMH-Crisis-Hotline

https://www.mhfirstresponse.org/crisis--treatment-centers.html

https://www.webbline.com/list-of-suicide-prevention-hotlines-in-the-philippines/

https://blog.opencounseling.com/hotlines-ph/

Clinics:

https://mentalhealthph.org/directory/

https://philstarlife.com/self/156907-list-mental-health-care-facilities

---

As our discussion continues, Ken shares his goals as a teacher and a mental health advocate. He mentions how his advocacy will help him as a teacher, and how we can help other people without being a mental health professional. In relation to a recent trigger he encountered, Ken narrates an unpleasant experience with a mental health professional. This episode highlights the context of "No one size fits all" especially pertaining to the type of intervention such as psychotherapy techniques that work well an individual. We end the episode with words of encouragement for the audience, and the call for action to genuinely listen to people who express themselves, even if their thoughts are outside their 'usual' or 'norm'.

Send a message to Ken or view his posts and song covers via his Facebook account: https://www.facebook.com/kendrick.anthony.77

"What a teacher is, is more important than what he teaches." -Karl Meninger

Disclaimer: The episode contains themes related to depression, suicidality, difficult emotions, and Cordilleran cultural context (ie. language, practices). 

In support of the National Suicide Prevention Week (September 9-13) in the Philippines, Sa Labas ng Classroom will feature episodes that shed light about suicidality. If you think and/or feel that this episode is too heavy to listen to or that you are not entirely ready to listen to the episode, I encourage you to skip this episode. You may return to this episode when you feel better :)

Similarly, if you feel intense negative emotions after listening to this episode, you may send me an email (myra.g.gahid@gmail.com) so we can discuss about your feelings about the episode.

Should you be interested to seek help, you may also refer to the following links for organizations that offer services related to mental health:

Hotlines:

https://doh.gov.ph/NCMH-Crisis-Hotline

https://www.mhfirstresponse.org/crisis--treatment-centers.html

https://www.webbline.com/list-of-suicide-prevention-hotlines-in-the-philippines/

https://blog.opencounseling.com/hotlines-ph/

Clinics:

https://mentalhealthph.org/directory/

https://philstarlife.com/self/156907-list-mental-health-care-facilities

---

In an episode like no other, the guest openly shares his story in an eloquent and powerful manner. Kendrick Canuto is a teacher, a mental health advocate, and a mental health survivor. His story highlights the importance of mental health awareness and suicide prevention while giving hope to people who are currently struggling and who feel hopeless about their situation. Ken shares the good news of recently being considered as a tenured teacher, and discusses how this milestone fuels his plans for his advocacy. He also narrates how a student's courageous act affected him. As a survivor, Ken enthusiastically provided tips and nuggets of wisdom as a part of his personal mission to talk about mental health. He even discussed the importance of social support, patience, and medication. Join me as we learn more about Ken and his extraordinary journey.

"To give life a meaning, one must have a purpose larger than self." - Will Durant

In this meaningful episode, The Hijabi Coach, Faye Detuyatu Kho openly shares about how her experience changed the way she views her purpose in life. With her passion to empower women, especially Muslim women, coach Faye differentiated living and existence and highlighted the importance of aligning with one's spiritual values. She also gave relevant tips in seeking professional help, comparing it to riding a plane to reach the destination (versus walking or riding a tricycle). I learned a lot from this conversation, and I hope that more people will have a better understanding of the importance of mental health and professional help. Despite our difference in religious affiliation, I deeply appreciated what coach Faye said, "Mental health is not about who believes in God and who doesn't." Listen to our conversation, and be inspired by her words as we continue to live worthy!

Follow her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/LiveWorthyCoach

"The weak make others feel inferior. The strong make others feel equal." - Maxime Lagace

In another inspiring and insightful episode, I learn a lot from sir Junix Delos Santos, as he defines and dispels some myths about the SOGIESC construct. He gives practical examples of how gender discrimination exists in our current society. Going beyond the examples, he mentions and briefly discusses technical terms such as lived and dead names and the Minority Stress Model. Lastly, sir Junix shares a few suggestions on how we can serve as safe spaces for people, especially members of minority groups. Listen in on our conversation, and learn a thing or two about how we can express and practice equality, even if we are not a part of the minority.

Connect with sir Junix via email at junixdelossantos@gmail.com.

"Research is to see what everybody else has seen, and to think what nobody else has thought." - Albert Szent-Gyorgyi

Disclaimer: This episode contains themes related to grief, fear of blood, VAWC, and gender inequality. This episode also briefly mentions suicide attempts as part of a response included in a research. This episode was recorded last year, and some of the projects mentioned by the guest have likely been concluded. Lastly, the episode includes background noises such as the barking of dogs. I tried my best to minimize the said noises, but I couldn't remove them entirely. I apologize in advance for the inconvenience this may cause to your listening experience.

After months of not posting anything, Sa Labas ng Classroom podcast enters 2023 with an episode that features the importance of research and research literacy. Ma'am Maria Jesusa Gambulao graces the podcast with her expertise as she shares how her passion for research started, what researches can contribute to the society, and how research in indigenous communities serve as valuable resources for major life changes. We briefly talk about our fear of blood and our opinions about 'fact checking'. Additionally, ma'am MJ discusses how the mental health field can benefit from researches that utilize multidisciplinary studies. Finally, don't miss how ma'am MJ highlights the importance of the mental health of our teachers!

Disclaimer: This episode mentions rape as part of the context of one of the guest's answers regarding the host's question about possible research topics the researchers are interested in. 

---

Exploring Filipino therapists’ experiences on vagueness in online cognitive behavioral therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract: The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has urged healthcare services to transition into virtual setting, creating a challenge for both clients and therapists as they try to carry on with their usual routines in therapy, most especially when it comes to communication. With the use of descriptive qualitative design and Bordin’s Therapeutic Alliance Model as guide, this paper looks into therapists’ perspectives and experiences on online psychotherapy, particularly on virtually utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), in the Philippines to learn more about how to achieve positive therapeutic outcomes, despite being presented with communication challenges such as clients’ ambiguity. The researchers explored therapists’ experiences with regards to building therapeutic relationships, as well as therapists’ interpretations on clients’ ambiguity, and investigated therapists’ strategies to continue with the conversation that presents ambiguity. Primary data were gathered, making use of thematic analysis to gain an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon. Consequently, the current study shows that clients’ ambiguity is common and even inevitable at times, but chances of happening so may be reduced depending on the foundation of the client-therapist relationship and how therapists’ strategies work on the client. Future research could include a larger sample size, and consider taking into account dialect differences and how it could pose a barrier in communication. 

Keywords: therapeutic relationship, therapist, strategy, cognitive behavioral therapy, COVID-19, pandemic

"Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren't always comfortable, but they're never weakness." -Brene Brown

Disclaimer: This episode contains themes related to suicidality.

If you think and/or feel that this episode is too heavy to listen to or that you are not entirely ready to listen to the episode, I encourage you to skip this episode. You may return to this episode when you feel better :)

Similarly, if you feel intense negative emotions after listening to this episode, you may send me an email (myra.g.gahid@gmail.com) so we can discuss about your feelings about the episode.

Should you be interested to seek help, you may also refer to the following links for organizations that offer services related to mental health:

Hotlines:

https://doh.gov.ph/NCMH-Crisis-Hotline

https://www.mhfirstresponse.org/crisis--treatment-centers.html

https://www.webbline.com/list-of-suicide-prevention-hotlines-in-the-philippines/

https://blog.opencounseling.com/hotlines-ph/

Clinics:

https://mentalhealthph.org/directory/

https://philstarlife.com/self/156907-list-mental-health-care-facilities

---

Connecting the previous celebration of National Suicide Prevention Week to today's celebration of World Mental Health Day, this episode features a guest whom I met online in my advocacy for mental health. Eunice 'Euni' Jean Patron is my partner-in-advocacy in the The 100% Attitude Project and the Communications Director of Project SMILE. Her openness in sharing her story and journey is emphasized in our discussion, as she includes how her degree helps her advocacies. We also talk about the importance of talking about suicide, and helping other people get through the darker chapters of their lives by being a helping hand and a listening ear. This kwentuhan session is relatively short, but is definitely an insightful one!

Disclaimer: The episode mentions broken family, parenthood, and relationships. Also, portions of the episode contain background noises.

"Life is full of positive and negative experiences, but the quality of one's life will always depend on the ones that dominate one's focus the most." 

- Edmond Mbiaka

As a returning guest, James Casino initiates a conversation about how we can turn a negative experience to a positive one. He acknowledges that the topic itself is broad, and chose to center our discussion around relationships. Starting from rock bottom and reaching where he is today, James' progress as a person can easily be viewed as an inspiration. Anchoring his insights on his personal experience, specifically about growing up in a broken family and choosing to be responsible for his daughter, may this conversation encourage us to find the silver lining in our current life, despite the struggles we sometimes choose to keep silent about. 

While waiting for his podcast, Uplift from Within, you may follow and send a message to James via Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.f.casino

Disclaimer: Portions of the episode contain background noises

"To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest achievement." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Continuing the previous episode, Wym, Rebecca, Laisa and Paul answer my random question that transformed our conversation to a job interview and maybe even, a beauty pageant. Jokes aside, I feel proud to hear how these former students of mine share what they can uniquely contribute as new professionals in the workplace and in the society. Their answers include providing service and knowledge, giving back to the community, influencing the government to address accessibility of mental health services, and giving importance to interpersonal relationships. Could you guess who answered which statement? Listen to the episode to find out!

Disclaimer: This episode mentions discrimination and stereotyping. Portions of the episode vary in volume.

"Every new experience brings its own maturity and a greater clarity of vision." - Indira Gandhi

Months later, the conversation with some of my former students finally comes to light. Let's listen to Wymberly Lumpias, Rebecca Billao, Laisa Berato, and Paul Jacalan as they share their experiences of being a part of the first K-12 batch in the country. We explore their impressions - about the supposed lesser years to be spent in college to the expectation of aligning with globalization, from the consequences in financial matters to the anticipation of learning more about a specific field. We also talk about their choice of educational strand and the most memorable lessons they gained from their senior high school days.

What do you remember about your student days? We would love to listen to your insights!

Disclaimer: This episode mentions self-harm, depression, difficult emotions, and other mental health jargon. Portions of the episode vary in volume.

"Healing takes time, and asking for help is a courageous step." - Mariska Hargitay

In the second installment of our conversation, ate Daryl "Danae" Gallardo-Espelita, talks about how bipolar disorder affects her experience of impulsive decisions, memory loss, and potentially harmful urges. She also elaborates on the dangers of stopping medication, and shared the importance of the triangle plan of treatment. We also address the gravity of a good support system, including how being more proactive in changing the dynamics of communication and relationships help in the management of symptoms.

Listen in on our conversation, and share what you learned to your family and friends! We would love to listen to your insights!

Disclaimer: This episode mentions self-harm, difficult emotions, and other mental health jargon. Portions of the episode may include barking of dogs and other noises.

"I have had manic-depressive illness, also knows as bipolar disorder, since I was 18 years old. It is an illness that ensures that those who have it will experience a frightening, chaotic and emotional ride. It is not a gentle or easy disease. - Kay Redfield Jamison

In this sleepover-like conversation with Daryl "Danae" Gallardo-Espelita, we debunk a few myths related to bipolar disorder. We talk about the importance of labels, but also address mislabeling. Ate Daryl, as I fondly call her, openly share some of her personal experiences of depressive episodes and mania. She also discusses the importance of therapy, and how therapy is like dating. Learn more about how someone with bipolar disorder might encounter emotions as she elaborates on the 'fun' and not-so-fun parts of mania.

Disclaimer: This episode contains words related to trauma, abuse, and difficult emotions.

"Pain travels through families until someone is ready to feel it." - Stephi Wagner

In the second part of our discussion about intergenerational trauma, Dyryl, Samantha, and I share some of our thoughts related to Luisa and Bruno, two characters of the movie, Encanto. As we validate the experience of intergenerational trauma (and all emotions that are connected to it), we also present possible factors that can affect the continuity of such experience. The guests discuss how they choose to break intergenerational trauma, and provide a few tips about how to start. 

For an in-depth analysis of the Encanto characters, you may refer to Steph Anya's explanation here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aew-MogogXE

For more details about intergenerational trauma, you may refer to the following references:

Dixon, E. (2021, July 3). Breaking the chains of generational trauma. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-flourishing-family/202107/breaking-the-chains-generational-trauma

Gillespie, C. (2020, October 27). What Is generational trauma? Here's how experts explain it. Health. https://www.health.com/condition/ptsd/generational-trauma

Marschall, A. (2022, January 19). What is intergenerational trauma?. Very Well Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-integenerational-trauma-5211898

Disclaimer: This episode contains movie spoilers, and also may mention difficult emotions.

"If we carry intergenerational trauma (and we do), then we also carry intergenerational wisdom. It's in our genes and our DNA." - Kazu Haga

Due to the popularity of the animated film, Encanto, I, Dyryl, and Samantha, decided to explore the concept of intergenerational trauma. Though we are not experts in the said topic, we attempted to define the said concept and describe how intergenerational trauma is as personal as it is universal. In part 1 of the episode, we acknowledge the contribution of history to intergenerational trauma, and how having productive conversations about this type of trauma is just the first step to healing cycles.

For an in-depth analysis of the Encanto characters, you may refer to Steph Anya's explanation here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aew-MogogXE

For more details about intergenerational trauma, you may refer to the following references:

Dixon, E. (2021, July 3). Breaking the chains of generational trauma. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-flourishing-family/202107/breaking-the-chains-generational-trauma

Gillespie, C. (2020, October 27). What Is generational trauma? Here's how experts explain it. Health. https://www.health.com/condition/ptsd/generational-trauma 

Marschall, A. (2022, January 19). What is intergenerational trauma?. Very Well Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-integenerational-trauma-5211898

Disclaimer: This episode mentions childhood trauma, reincarnation, and other concepts under metaphysics. This episode also contains more off tangents compared to other episodes. Lastly, this episode might contain the sound of dogs barking. I did my best to minimize the sound, and I apologize for the possible discomfort and interruption the sound may cause to your listening experience.

"Empathy is patiently and sincerely seeing the world through the other person's eyes. It is not learned in school; it is cultivated over a lifetime." - Albert Einstein

In this complex and insight-driven episode, I and Baker Jacinto explore and discuss our views about empathy and being different. Baker, author of many spiritual books such as Conscious Abilities, emphasizes the importance of communicating one's authentic self and addressing the programming we might have received during childhood. Get to know a little more about boundaries, the soul tribe, and being in alignment to one's life mission and purpose as we do our best to navigate the main topic (and eventually fail to some extent as we also attempt to cover bits of our own off tangents).

Purchase the book, Conscious Abilities, here: https://www.amazon.com/Conscious-Abilities-Baker-Jacinto/dp/B08928L8WV

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conscious_abilities_/

Disclaimer: This episode mentions a few things about heavy emotions and emergency contacts. Proceed to listening to the episode when you are emotionally and mentally ready and comfortable. Thank you!

---

"Never underestimate the difference you can make in the lives of others. Step forward, reach out, and help. Reach out to someone that might need a lift." - Pablo

In another insightful episode, join me and Ms. Ashley Valdez, RGC, as we talk about her personal journey as a Registered Guidance Counselor. Our discussion covers how she discovered her calling, the importance of having a guidance program in place, and how a guidance counselor's role is focused on empowering rather than punishing. The episode also helps us to look at Point A and Point B differently, and how a mental health professional's journey is a storybook of its own.

Listen to Ms. Ashley's podcast, Rapid Firing with Ashley, via Spotify at https://open.spotify.com/show/14WTcJo7AKehvf29iLY58g

Follow her @rapidfiringwithashley

Online readiness and self-efficacy of students as reflected on online learning (2021)

Binlingan, A., Mapilis, M., Ognayon, P., Batchi, J., & Gotia, K.

Abstract

The Department of Education has adopted distance learning since all academic levels were advised to have their learners stay at home as a safe response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Online learning practices have gained momentum. The developments in network technologies and the need for its capabilities to make learning possible and realistic in the safety of the learners’ and teachers’ home. Online learning is new to most universities in the Philippines in handling higher education. Henceforth online learning has become a topic for controversies as parents, learners, and teachers may not be fully ready to meet the demands and challenges online learning may bring about. While up-to-date studies have examined the online learning readiness and self-efficacy of traditional learners, there remains a need to understand these variables amidst the pandemic.

The purpose of this study is to examine online learning readiness and self-efficacy through Quantitative Descriptive Correlational Method. The researcher was able to include five dimensions under online readiness, which are (a.) Self-Direction, (b.) Learning Preferences, (c.) Study Habits, (d.) Technological Skills, and (e.) Computer Equipment Capabilities. The researcher was able to study the level of online readiness and the level of self-efficacy. Examining literature studies from various scientific articles and an in-depth survey were conducted with a sample population of students enrolled in online learning. The researchers have included 385 learners, regardless of their gender. They are from the seven different colleges under the trimester program of the University of Cordilleras.  The result of the study was able to show that the level of online and the level of self-efficacy is average. Furthermore, online readiness and self-efficacy have a significant and strong positive relationship.

The study implies that when the level of online readiness of respondents is high, the level of self-efficacy also tends to be high, and vice versa. This phenomenon also explains the online readiness and self-efficacy to both in the average level. The study will benefit the future researcher, teachers, students, parents, the educational system of the Philippines, and the Filipino people as a whole.

Keywords: Online Readiness, Self-Efficacy, Online Learning, Pandemic, COVID-19

"The power of social media is it forces necessary change." - Erik Qualman

In this powerful episode, Genevieve "Loui Gee" Ganga, one of my elementary batchmates, shares her insights after taking a break from social media for seven years. Our discussion covers interesting insights about how social media affects our mental health and the importance of finding one's peace. We also talk about how social media content easily sets unstated standards that can negatively influence one's self-esteem. In our conversation that is fifteen years in the making, we revel in the ability of social media to connect and reconnect people.

P.S. This episode also features Loui Gee's singing voice. :) Like, follow, and subscribe to her accounts: IG: louigee22 | YouTube: Loui Gee (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNnrfu6HkcyurH0vr-cNafA)

Lived Experiences of Gays with Verbal Abuse 

Seacor, L. C., Mosarbas, K.G., & Lacbawan, E.L. (2020)

Abstract:

This study sought to explore the lived experiences of gays with verbal abuse and its effect to their emotional health using a qualitative field research design and conducting in-depth interviews with five gay students at the University of the Cordilleras. Generally, bullying and abuse to LGBTQ members, specifically to gay students, have increasingly gained attention in the country as a serious issue which has to be resolved. This paper described verbal abuse and the experiences of the gay students and how it affected their emotions and feelings. Findings show that they receive verbal abuse at their own homes as well as in their schools, both from family members, classmates, faculty and staff, friends, and strangers. This verbal abuse was in the form of consistent “panlalait” (teasing), “pagbabanta” (threatening), “pagmumura” (cussing), stereotyping, and discriminating. Likewise, verbal abuse had caused negative influence on them especially on the state of their emotional health. They feel down, sad, anxious, threatened, concealed feelings and were unable to trust others. In coping with verbal abuse, they basically just shrug all the negative words thrown to them and they try to understand their abusers while they make sure to keep a positive mindset. They also hold importance to the support and love from their families, especially their parents, and their friends thus it was further concluded in the study that important relationships are vital in a gay’s life in order to cope with verbal abuse. 

Keywords: gays, verbal abuse, emotional health, coping strategies 

Mga Katutubong Konsepto ng Sakit Pangkaisipan sa Pasdong, Atok, Benguet

Cayat, R.C.J., Red, M.B., Medina, J., Ingles, H.L., (2019).

Iba-iba ang paniniwala ng bawat kultura sa kung ano ang mga konseptong bumubuo sa usapin ng kalusugang pangkaisipan at mga sakit pangkaisipan. Sa mga pag-aaral, ipinagpalagay na ang mga programa at mga serbisyo para sa kalusugang pangkaisipan ay kailangang nakapaloob sa konteksto ng kultura ng mga katutubo at hindi sa proseso ng unibersalidad at aplikasyon ng mga ito. Maging ang R.A. 11036 o ang Mental Health Act ay kinikilala ang kaakmaan at kaugnayan ng kultura sa paglikha at pagsusulong ng mga programa para sa kalusugang pangkaisipan. Bilang tugon, kinalap ng mga mananaliksik ang mga salaysay at mga kuwento ng mga ka-Igorotan sa barangay Pasdong, Atok, Benguet. Sinisikap ng pananaliksik na bigyang kahulugan at mapagtibay ang mga katutubong konsepto na may kaugnayan sa usapin ng sakit pangkaisipan. Kwalitatibong disenyo ng pananaliksik at mga metodo ng etnograpiya ang ginamit sa pag-aaral. Bukod pa rito, gumamit ng mga katutubong metodo sa pangangalap ng datos. Kabilang dito ang pansipot (marahan na imbestigasyon), panbisna (pag-obserba gamit ang limang pandama), peki-da o peki’man (pakikilahok sa komunidad), at pannemnem (pagninilay). May tatlong kalahok na sadyang pinili para sa pag-aaral, kabilang dito ay dalawang mambunong at isang nakatatanda

Mga Katutubong Konsepto ng Sakit Pangkaisipan sa Pasdong, Atok, Benguet

Cayat, R.C.J., Red, M.B., Medina, J., Ingles, H.L., (2019).

Iba-iba ang paniniwala ng bawat kultura sa kung ano ang mga konseptong bumubuo sa usapin ng kalusugang pangkaisipan at mga sakit pangkaisipan. Sa mga pag-aaral, ipinagpalagay na ang mga programa at mga serbisyo para sa kalusugang pangkaisipan ay kailangang nakapaloob sa konteksto ng kultura ng mga katutubo at hindi sa proseso ng unibersalidad at aplikasyon ng mga ito. Maging ang R.A. 11036 o ang Mental Health Act ay kinikilala ang kaakmaan at kaugnayan ng kultura sa paglikha at pagsusulong ng mga programa para sa kalusugang pangkaisipan. Bilang tugon, kinalap ng mga mananaliksik ang mga salaysay at mga kuwento ng mga ka-Igorotan sa barangay Pasdong, Atok, Benguet. Sinisikap ng pananaliksik na bigyang kahulugan at mapagtibay ang mga katutubong konsepto na may kaugnayan sa usapin ng sakit pangkaisipan. Kwalitatibong disenyo ng pananaliksik at mga metodo ng etnograpiya ang ginamit sa pag-aaral. Bukod pa rito, gumamit ng mga katutubong metodo sa pangangalap ng datos. Kabilang dito ang pansipot (marahan na imbestigasyon), panbisna (pag-obserba gamit ang limang pandama), peki-da o peki’man (pakikilahok sa komunidad), at pannemnem (pagninilay). May tatlong kalahok na sadyang pinili para sa pag-aaral, kabilang dito ay dalawang mambunong at isang nakatatanda.

"Once you're a mental health worker, even outside a company, you'll always be a mental health worker." - Maya Racuya

In another insightful episode, Ms. Maya Racuya shares her journey as a mental health advocate and entrepreneur. She talks about how mental health is a balance of self and how diet plays a crucial role in this equation. We also discuss the importance of safe spaces, and how businesses can be portals for referral to mental health professionals. With her knowledge and experience, this episode also features the terms, adaptogenics and ayurveda. Join us in this episode and discover something new!

The "Can't Say No Syndrome" among Filipino adults

Garcia, R. (2017).

ABSTRACT

An individual who displays the Can’t Say No Syndrome (CSNS) has a sense of self-worth that appears to depend on the support of others. They have difficulty in being assertive and are habitually saying “yes”. Similar to the concept of the CSNS are Filipino cultural notions namely, “kapwa”, “hiya”, “utang na loob”, and “pakikisama”. This value system can be illustrated in the popular Filipino concept of “masamang tao”, “walang hiya”, “walang utang na loob” and “walang pakikisama”. The current study has investigated the factors, advantages and disadvantages of the CSNS. Interviews were conducted to nine (n=9) male and female adults between the age of 23 – 56 years old residing in Benguet, Pangasinan and Metro Manila. Pagtatanung-tanong (asking questions) and pakikipagkwentuhan (sharing stories) were used to determine their experiences. Responses from the interview were analyzed through thematic analysis too. The results show that the CSNS among Filipino adults are evident in almost all the aspects of interpersonal and intrapersonal relationships. The result reveals themes namely: Moral Obligation, Guilt, Avoidance of Negative Outcomes and having No Choice. However, the CSNS can be advantageous as individuals were motivated to Self-Actualize. Conversely, this may lead to such disadvantages: Contradicting Ones’ Own Values and Beliefs, and People Pleasing and Approval Seeking to adhere to expectations and aspirations of others.

Keywords: Can’t Say No Syndrome, People Pleasing, “no”

"Colleagues should take care of each other, have fun, celebrate success, learn by failure, look for reasons to praise not to criticize, communicate freely and respect each other." - Richard Branson

Years after our initial encounter, Johana Ulban and Beverly Marzo share their thoughts about how colleagues become friends. Beverly highlights the importance of standards, while Johana elaborates a 'technical' formula. We also reminisce about our experiences that made us close. Lastly, we describe our current friendship status and our hopes for our relationships. Our conversation definitely brought back A LOT of laughter, fun, and good memories!

Self-consciousness and the experience of the impostor phenomenon among Filipino young adults

Gahid, M. (2017).

Abstract

Previous researches documented the Impostor Phenomenon among adults and Asians. This study responds to the limited exploration of Impostor Phenomenon among young adults and Filipinos, which aims to (1) identify the dominant dimension of self-consciousness among Filipino young adults; (2) determine the most experienced Impostor Phenomenon factor; (3) investigate the contribution of self-consciousness dimensions to Impostor Phenomenon. Filipino young adults (N=452) from Benguet, Ilocos Region, and National Capital Region completed the Self-Consciousness Scale and the Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale. Filipino young adults scored high on all dimensions of self-consciousness where public self-consciousness was rated the highest. In terms of Impostor Phenomenon experience, Fake was identified as the most prevalent factor. Personal and societal perceptions and generation differences are seen as potential explanations of the findings. All dimensions of self-consciousness significantly contribute to the Impostor Phenomenon experience of Filipino young adults. Cultural concepts that mainly contribute to the results are discussed. Relevant suggestions about positively strengthening the self-consciousness of Filipino young adults and how to deal with Impostor Phenomenon experiences are provided.

Key words: self-consciousness, Impostor Phenomenon, young adults

"A moment of self-compassion can change your entire day. A string of such moments can change the course of your life." -Christopher Germer

After knowing more about the experiences of Impostor Phenomenon, Grace Ang, Angelica Nichole Marco, and Eden Grace Rudio share a few tips about how to have more self-compassion. Our discussion includes the importance of goal setting yet honoring and asserting boundaries, knowing your purpose yet having a self-care routine, and keep going yet forgiving oneself.

This episode will surely give you the feels! 

"The better you feel about yourself, the less you feel the need to show off." - Robert Hand

Have you ever experienced feeling like your achievements were not truly your own? Maybe, you've thought about how luck has brought you success or that you are probably deceiving the people around you because you're really not the 'great' person they perceive you as?

Joined by three other psychologists, Grace Ang, Angelica Nichole Marco, and Eden Grace Rudio, this episode features notable details about how we experienced the Impostor Phenomenon. We also describe our current level of self-esteem, and highlight how self-esteem affects how we view our personal and professional successes.

You don't want to miss out on this collaboration of minds, friendship, and life lessons!

"Does this work align with my values?" 

Disclaimer: This topic touches on depressive symptoms and experience of depressive episode.

In the last episode of Sa Labas ng Classroom (Season 1), Ms. Eden Grace Rudio shares how the pandemic made her experience a break, a pause, and impactful rejection. Our insightful discussion includes a formula for breakthrough, the grief process, and the effect of delaying such process. We also express a more vulnerable aspect of ourselves as we emphasize how psychologists (and other mental health professionals) are not immune to strong emotions and essentially, mental health concerns. 

Check out Ms. Eden's page, Isip Usapan (https://www.facebook.com/isipusapan).

Ms. Eden and I are a part of Psychstart, Psychological, Academic and Art Services clinic. Our clinic offers FREE consultation (limited slots) every last Sunday of the month. Inquire or reserve a slot via our Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/psychstartservices.

----

Curious about Season 2? Help me prepare by answering a few questions: https://bit.ly/SLCSeason2

"Before you become a leader, success is all about growing yourself. After you become a leader, success is about growing others." -Jack Welch

Disclaimer: This episode mentions suicide cases, suicide, and reactions to suicide.

In this episode, I have an insighful discussion with Ms. Pharisia Gail Tudlong, who admittingly wears a lot of hats (metaphorically at least). We talk about her preconceptions of leadership and how her experiences built the path towards acknowledging her own definition of leadership. She also shares a few things about crab mentality and gossip, the importance of trainings, and being scammed. She encourages everyone to Choose to Rise while giving a Daily Dose of Sunshine to everyone you meet. We also highlight how you can be a part of the mental health movement by being a member of Project S.I.L.E.W.

Avail her 1st book (Daily Dose of Sunshine) via Shoppee: https://shopee.ph/Daily-Dose-of-Sunshine-Book-by-Pharisia-Gail-Leyaley-Tudlong-i.25079907.3656714845). 

Feel free to send her a message to know more about her 2nd book (Choose to Rise) or Project S.I.L.E.W. via her FB page (https://www.facebook.com/phar.tudlong)

"Comparison is the thief of joy." - Theodore Roosevelt

Disclaimer: This episode contains experiences of grief, body shaming, and bullying.

In one of the more emotion-laden episodes, Raphi Sta. Ana, Honey Palmito, Dulcy Faustino, Alma Gaddawon, and Kimberly Marata comfortably share pieces of their vulnerability as we talk about insecurity and loss. Although the topic is broad and requires an immense level of courage to be used in everyday conversation, Raphi, Honey, Dulcy, Alma, and Kim bravely identify how they describe insecurity and loss. Our conversation includes the experience of losing loved ones, various sources of insecurity, and the importance of one's social circles. As we dive into relatively uncomfortable sub-topics, the friendship shared by the guests is emphasized. This episode remarkably incorporates heartwarming words of wisdom untainted by the shadows of self-doubt, low self-esteem, and heartbreak.