While the Covid-19 pandemic has brought to the forefront many concerns about our physical health, the importance of mental well-being in these tumultuous times cannot be understated.

This was the focus of JCI Senate Manila’s web talk called Peace of Mind: A Journey Towards Mental Resilience and Wellness. Held in partnership with the Pasay City Public Information Office, the talk featured as a special guest Dr. Julian R. Montano, an expert in psychology.

Dr. Montano discussed how the drastic life changes and uncertainty created by the pandemic and the lockdowns has been a cause of great anxiety for many. This anxiety and stress of livelihood and financial struggles, as well as having to adapt to this “New Normal” can lead some people to their breaking point, ending in depression.

Dr. Montano went on to highlight the importance of emotional support on several levels: from learning to manage our emotions (using techniques such as meditation and exercise), to reframing our world view (for example, by focusing on things we are grateful for.) When that doesn’t work, he suggests counselling, which gives someone a confidential, judgement-free space to express their anxieties and develop techniques for mental resilience with the guidance of a professional.