BSEd-English studes join suicide prevention campaign

by Darlene Cunanan & Steven Jhon Lopez

Debunking the myths and stereotypes that have long been associated with depression and suicide,
Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) major in English students joined the annual suicide prevention
campaign through their official Facebook page last September 19, 2022.

COEd English Language Education Society (CELES), along with its officers and members, held three
activities to spread awareness about depression and suicide.

Led by Ms. Shiena Mae Venzon, the CELES President, the activities conducted were: (1) posting
infographics for suicide intervention from the World Health Organization (WHO); (2) a short video clip
entitled “You Will Always Be Found”; and (3) a picture collage from each class, including the CELES
officers.

“We conducted these activities because these might provide a sense of belongingness to
everyone struggling and feeling alone. It can also remind people to be kind because they don’t
know who struggles alone. But, more importantly, it reaches the world to become aware of
suicide, urging them to check on their family and friends,” Venzon added.

Furthermore, when asked about the preparation, they said: “First, I researched to obtain information
and background about the campaign. In line with this, I will know how we can participate and
how I will explain it to my co-officers. Second, I scheduled a meeting with my officers to discuss
the campaign and come up with the activities mentioned previously. Third, we instructed the
organization’s members about the campaign and gave them the guidelines for each activity.
Fourth, after finalizing the activity, we drafted the letter and sent it to all the concerned officials
to make the movement possible,” Venzon said.

According to the CELES Secretary, Ms. Bianca Contreras, they received many positive feedback and
appreciation messages from those who have recently felt alone and exhausted.

“I couldn’t be prouder of how our prepared activities turned out. We were thanked and praised. I
hope that even if it’s not World Suicide Prevention Month, people will continue to check on their
friends and families. We should choose to be kind, always,” Contreras added.