USJ Mental Health Project to Promote Students’ Well-being
USJ Mental Health Project to Promote Students’ Well-being
08
Apr
08/04/2025
The University of Saint Joseph hosts a series of mental health activities from 24 March to 7 April 2025.
The Office for Student and Alumni Affairs (OSAA) of the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) has organised a series of mental health activities from 24 March to 7 April across the three different campuses of the university to enhance students’ well-being.
The Project includes a Roadshow of the “Reclaiming Relaxation through the Five Senses”, which introduces practical ways to alleviate stress. The Draw All You Can Workshop and the Marimo Workshop were also held to provide alternative stress management techniques and mental health support. The Project is aimed to promote the UN SDGs 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and 4 (Quality Education).
Interactive Exhibition Boards Enhance Campus Belonging and Appreciation
Sponsored by the Education and Youth Development Bureau, the Roadshow and Interaction Area takes place from 24 March to 7 April at USJ Ilha Verde Campus. The roadshow focuses on utilizing the five human senses—sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch—to provide concrete methods for stress relief, helping students find ways to relax and achieve peace in their daily lives. The roadshow also features interactive zones, including a spinning wheel that randomly suggests simple stress-relief tips and techniques for participants to try. OSAA distributes stress-relief items to the participants, such as bubble wrap and visual cards, encouraging them to engage in small interactive activities and observe the beauty of the USJ campus. These activities combine fun with campus features, guiding students to observe and appreciate different corners of the campus. It fosters a sense of belonging and appreciation while helping students practice stress-relief techniques in their daily lives.
A ‘Stress Relief Zone” was set up at the Student Lounge where students can draw their daily emotions within the colorful frames. This creative platform supports students’ mental health experiences and raises awareness of the importance of mental well-being. The “Hopscotch Challenge” was also provided to encourage students to participate in simple physical activities to boost energy, release dopamine, and improve mood and focus, ultimately helping to reduce stress and enhance emotional well-being.
Draw All You Can Workshop Promotes Emotional Healing Through Creativity
The Draw All You Can Workshop was held on 25 March under the guidance of Ms. Isabel Chim, a certified teacher and USJ counselor. Through the use of illustrated cards, participating students explored their creative painting skills to achieve mind-body healing effects.
A year-four BBA student from the Philippines mentioned that this activity helped her relax and escape from daily pressures. She added that she particularly enjoyed the “unrestricted painting” concept as it allowed authentic self-expression, and this openness significantly benefits mental health. She hopes that USJ will continue organizing similar workshops to help students maintain psychological well-being.
Marimo Workshop Promotes Relaxation
The Marimo Workshop was held on 28 March in the open area outside OSAA. By creating micro-ecosystem bottles, participants can focus on the creative process, achieving relaxation and stress relief. Observing the changes in the bottle’s ecosystem also brings a sense of calmness and healing. The workshop provides a platform for faculty and students to interact, share ideas, and strengthen campus cohesion in a relaxed environment.
A student from Argentina found the activities thoughtful and relaxing. She particularly enjoyed the creative products offered during the lucky draw. She also mentioned that the bubble wrap and spinning wheel designs were fun, making the overall experience enjoyable.
A BPY student praised the initiative, stating that hosting such activities on campus is a great way to encourage interaction among students while teaching basic psychological knowledge. She hopes the university will continue to promote similar events to enhance students’ mental health awareness.
