A stream of blue saturated the Pampanga State University (Pampanga State U) community as Honorians raised banners to advocate for the Light Up Blue for Mental Health to commemorate the World Mental Health Day on October 9, 2026. 

Pampanga State U’s Counseling and Testing Center together with the University Student Council, Psychology Student Council, and Human Services Student Organization organized a series of activities to promote mental health awareness and raise consciousness on available psychiatric support and services in the university.  

Director Richard N. Briones from the Office of Student Admissions and Support Services expressed his wish for mental health awareness to become an integral part of the University’s culture year-round rather than just a one-month observance. 

“Pwede ba tayong maging safe space ng bawat isa? Na year-round, we are mindful about mental health? We are mindful about our mental health, that we do not invalidate our feelings and also the feelings of other people?” Briones said. 

According to Briones, the presence and support of the university’s counseling center, scholarship office, college faculties, licensed psychologists, guidance counselors, and associates who are always available to help when things become overwhelming.

The celebration was held in observance of Mental Health Awareness Month and World Mental Health Day, which is observed annually on October 10.

Photo credits: Public and Media Affairs Unit

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