To introduce a new understanding of psychosocial dysfunction—emphasizing its physiological basis, lifestyle factors, and even food choices—the Wesleyan University-Philippines Guidance and Placement Center (GPC) hosted a webinar titled “Choosing Life: Empowering Strategies for Suicide Prevention” on September 19, 2025, via Zoom in observance of Suicide Prevention Month.

With over 100 participants, including students and professionals, the webinar featured Dr. Charissa Mojica-Rañeses, PhD, RN, ADS, PA (Res), an alumna of WUP’s Master of Education in Guidance and Counseling and Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs, a Psychotrauma Practitioner, and a Pastoral Counselor at the Porta Coeli Center for Counseling and Psychotrauma Management.

Additionally, Dr. Rañeses is also one of the first five Filipinos to train internationally in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a breakthrough in trauma therapy as per the World Health Organization’s pronouncement. She is also among the first group nominated and accepted by the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress in New York and was later granted Expert Court Witness status by the National Center for Crisis Management, also in New York.

In the webinar, Dr. Rañeses shared her expertise on the physiological responses of the human body during anxiety, explaining the role of hormones and the importance of a healthy lifestyle and dietary choices in managing mental health.

It also aimed to increase awareness of suicide prevention by equipping participants with practical tools and strategies to support mental health, build resilience, and identify risk factors.

Beyond this, the discussion highlighted proactive ways to handle mental health concerns and seek proper help.

“The approach ngayon is clinical na, yun ang trend ngayon sa psychosocial dysfunction. Depression, anxiety hindi na lang siya social effect but basically meron na rin siyang malalim na physical or physiological basis or cause,” said Dr. Annie Dinh Maria M. Alfaro, Director of the Guidance and Placement Center, affirming the relevance of the talk.

In addition, in line with its commitment to mental health advocacy, the GPC announced a roster of activities in October for Mental Health Awareness Month, which aims to continue breaking barriers, building hope, and strengthening support systems within and beyond its community.

by Ayumi San Cai Valerio
Info and photo courtesy of Dr. Annie Dinh Maria M. Alfaro and GPC