On September 10, 2025, academic leaders, innovators, and members of the community of the University of Baguio came together to show their solidarity for Suicide Prevention Day. Faculty, students, and staff united with a simple yet powerful gesture of hope and support for those affected by suicide by wearing different shades of yellow on clothing choices. This initiative, led by the Center for Counseling and Student Development (CCSD) and the Peer Facilitators (PeerC.A.D.A’s), marked an eventful day dedicated to raising awareness, fostering conversations, and reinforcing the message that prevention starts with understanding and compassion.
Changing the Narrative on Suicide: A Powerful Message of Hope
As part of the day’s events, the CCSD launched the first episode of their CCSD CARES series, titled “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”. This enlightening session featured Mr. Mark Francis Carbon, PhD (c), an expert in mental health and wellness. The talk aimed to change the way we think and talk about suicide, as the issue remains shrouded in stigma, yet is vital and proper for every community to address.
Dr. Carbon’s keynote emphasized that understanding the prevention of suicide goes beyond identifying the risks and acknowledging the power of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Gradually sharing insightful observations about the prevalent causes of suicide among students, particularly academic pressure, bullying, and isolation, Dr. Carbon countered these challenges by highlighting the importance of protective factors such as strong social support, meaningful connections, and access to mental health resources as crucial to safeguarding mental well-being.
Dr. Carbon also stressed a vital message:
“Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.”
Alt Text: UB CCSD members on the dedicated booth/s around Campomanes to share hope and resilience on Suicide Prevention and advocate Mental Health Day
He urged the UB community to create an environment where mental health is discussed openly and without shame. Self-care was another key theme, with Dr. Carbon advocating for balance in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health to strengthen resilience. His powerful closing words reminded everyone that suicide prevention is a collective responsibility, and that hope should be the cornerstone of every conversation on this topic.
Peer Facilitators Spread the Message of Hope at Campomanes
The Peer Facilitators (PeerC.A.D.A’s) contributed to the day’s success by organizing a vibrant and interactive booth at the UB Gymnasium Campomanes. This meaningful booth, which was designed to engage and uplift the university community, became a symbol of hope and positivity. Attendees were greeted with yellow ribbons, a universal symbol of hope and support for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. The ribbons were distributed with the message that life is precious and that prevention starts with a single act of kindness and compassion.
Alt Text: UB students and the community gathered around the dedicated booth/s around Campomanes to share hope and resilience on Suicide Prevention
The Peer Facilitators offered various activities, including crafting fuzzy flowers, handing out lollipops, and applying temporary tattoos. Visitors were encouraged to reflect on their own well-being and the importance of mental health through positive affirmations and discussions. These small acts of kindness provided students, faculty, and staff with tangible reminders that they are not alone in their struggles and that the UB community stands together in times of hardship.
As individuals left the booth with yellow ribbons pinned to their chests, the atmosphere was filled with a renewed sense of purpose. The yellow ribbons became not just a symbol of support for Suicide Prevention Day, but a personal commitment to advocate for prevention and to create a more compassionate, understanding campus.
The Impact of Wearing Yellow: UB Community United in Prevention and Hope
The sight of a yellow-clad campus on September 10 was a powerful reminder that suicide prevention is not only about providing resources but also about changing the narrative around mental health. It serves as a call to action to foster a supportive environment where conversations about mental health and well-being can be held without fear of judgment.
For the University of Baguio, this initiative was not just a one-day event; it was a bold statement that mental health matters. As the university demonstrates its never-ending commitment to prevention, not only by spreading hope and creating safe spaces for dialogue, but also by offering tangible support through counseling services and peer-led programs that are available year-round.
Why Suicide Prevention is Everyone’s Responsibility
Suicide is a silent struggle that many people face daily, and its effects can ripple through communities. The University of Baguio continues to lead the way in promoting mental wellness, making it clear that every individual is valued and that no one should have to face their struggles alone.
As Dr. Carbon so poignantly shared, “life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.” This message of hope and prevention is not just for those struggling with mental health issues, but for all of us to remember that our actions and words can make a difference.
UB is committed to continuing its role in suicide prevention by supporting mental health initiatives, promoting resilience, and reinforcing the importance of self-care. The efforts seen on Suicide Prevention Day are part of a larger movement to cultivate a campus culture where mental well-being is prioritized, and every student, faculty member, and employee knows they are valued.
In the words of Maya Angelou: “No matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.” The University of Baguio embraces this message, with the belief that through hope, prevention, and compassionate action, the future can be brighter for all.
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Written by: UB CCSD
