Taguig City is strengthening its commitment to youth well-being through a three-day Mental Health Training for Youth, an initiative designed to equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed to become mental health advocates within their communities.
Organized by the Taguig Youth Development Office (LYDO) in partnership with the City Health Office, the training gathered 30 aspiring youth peer facilitators at Function Room 1 of New City Hall on August 17 as part of the city's Linggo ng Kabataan celebration.
Training the Next Generation of Mental Health Advocates
Held under the theme “Katuwang ng Probinsyudad, Kabataang Hinubog ng may Integridad,” the program aims to help youth volunteers better understand mental health concerns and develop the confidence to support their fellow young people. Through the training, participants are introduced to ways of recognizing mental health experiences and responding with compassion, awareness, and appropriate support. The initiative emphasizes that young people can play an important role in creating communities where conversations about mental health are welcomed rather than avoided.
Promoting Compassionate Conversations
Mental health awareness goes beyond simply recognizing mental health concerns. It also involves creating an environment where people feel safe enough to speak about their experiences, seek help, and ask for support. Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano emphasized the importance of compassion and proactive listening, particularly as young people face different pressures involving school, work, relationships, family, and personal expectations.
The program encourages youth to listen, understand, and respond without judgment—helping build a community where individuals can feel seen, heard, and cared for.
Youth Participation in Community Well-Being
The training highlights the important role of young people in promoting a healthier and more supportive community. By becoming trained volunteers and peer facilitators, participants can help spread accurate information and encourage fellow youth to take mental health concerns seriously. The initiative also demonstrates how youth participation can contribute to broader community development. Rather than being passive recipients of information, young people are encouraged to become active advocates who can share what they learn with their peers.
