NEVER ARGUE, JUST LISTEN: EBMC PSYCHIATRIC UNIT HEAD TELLS COED STUDENTS TO HELP SOMEONE AT RISK OF SUICIDE
EDUCATION AND RESEARCH (ED)“Please do not argue with someone’s suicidal thoughts, just listen,” advised Dr. Rucelle C. Zuniega, head of the Eastern Bicol Medical Center (EBMC) Psychiatric Unit, during a mental health awareness seminar for College of Education (COEd) students on February 5, 2025. She emphasized the importance of allowing individuals to express their distress without judgment. “Encourage them to talk and truly listen,” she urged, reminding students never to leave someone feeling suicidal alone and to check on them regularly. For those experiencing psychosis, substance abuse, or severe distress, she recommended seeking emergency assistance immediately. If help is delayed, she suggested taking the person to a safe space like in a church. Supporting this, Rev. Fr. Nestor ‘Butch’ R. Buena encouraged students to bring individuals with suicidal thoughts to church for spiritual counseling. “Spirituality connects us to ourselves, to others, and to God,” he said, sharing his experiences in guiding those struggling. Organized by COED Guidance Service, the seminar also tackled depression where Mr. Noly T. Benavides, head of the university’s Guidance, Counseling, and Testing Office, described it as a serious medical condition and the leading cause of disability among American adults. He clarified that depression is often mistaken for sadness, highlighting biological factors such as genetics, hormones, and brain function. Before concluding, Dr. Zuniega left the participants, together with the COEd faculty, with a powerful reminder: “Remember that despite your best efforts, some people will still die by suicide. However, always do your best for the person you are helping.” The event was originally scheduled in October 2024 but was postponed and rescheduled due to typhoon.
