The Industrial University of Santander (UIS) joined in the commemoration of World Suicide Prevention Day with the event “Por el cuidado de la vida” (For the Care of Life), a space filled with recreational and educational activities that sought to raise awareness and encourage reflection within the university community on the importance of mental health and the need to seek support when required.
“This initiative was developed in conjunction with Student Welfare, the Academic Vice-Rector’s Office, the Listening Center, and the Academic Excellence System. It is a very special date on which we focus on life, reminding participants how wonderful it is to live, to care for and listen to others, and highlighting the importance of asking for help when needed,” said María Paula Hernández, coordinator of Student Welfare’s Health and Psychosocial Development Services.
The UIS mental health policy promotes the care of its community through tools, spaces, and highly qualified professionals to deal with moments of crisis. In this vein, the constant invitation is not to remain silent and to seek timely support.
“At UIS, we have multiple tools focused on mental health promotion and prevention. These include student counselors, Student Wellness, the Listening Center, among others. It is a broad support network with professionals prepared to take action,” said María Andrea Rodríguez, psychologist at the Listening Center.
The teachers who participated highlighted the relevance of these activities, not only for raising awareness of the importance of mental health care, but also for publicizing the support resources available at the institution.
“It is essential that, as a university community, we come together around these spaces. Students and teachers have responsibilities, and we must be aware of both physical and emotional care,” said Juan Sebastián Pinto, a professor at the Language School.
Similarly, for the students, it was an enriching, well-planned, and educational experience that reaffirmed that there is always someone willing to listen, help, and remind them that every problem has a solution.
“This is a very important issue for everyone. Mental health is something that the University is taking very seriously, and it is clear that it seeks to create a more peaceful space for its members. I hope these activities continue, because comprehensive well-being is essential,” emphasized Daniel Arenas, a student in the Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish Language and Literature program.
