Nasrimah R. Sampaco-Fayez
In celebration of the 67th National Medicine Week, a Lay Forum on Mental Health and Skin Care was held yesterday, September 26, 2024, at the Kalimudan Hall of Meranaw Cultural Heritage Center (MCHC) in MSU-Main Campus. The event was organized by a consortium of medical organizations, with the Philippine Medical Association-Lanao del Sur (PMA-LDS) and Lanao del Sur Medical Society as primary proponents. It was held in collaboration with the Mindanao State University (MSU)-Main Campus, particularly the College of Medicine (COM) and the University Medical Services and Hospital (UMSH), Philippine Academy of Family Physicians, Incorporated (PAFPI), Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS), Amai Pakpak Medical Center (APMC), and the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) of the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur.
With the theme “Ang Dakilang Sarili ay Tuklasin, Pag-iisip at Balat ay Bigyan-pansin,” the event aimed to raise awareness and promote the importance of self-care and well-being. It brought together medical professionals, experts, and students from Lanao del Sur to discuss essential topics related to mental health and skin care.
In her opening remarks, Prof. Sorhaila L. Latip-Yusoph, PhD, Director of MSU-MCHC and OIPP, committed support on behalf of the university. Dr. Alinader Minalang, President of the PMA-LDS, reminded the participants to reaffirm their collective responsibility to provide quality healthcare services to the community. He also extended gratitude to the university, under the leadership of MSU System President, Atty. Basari D. Mapupuno, and to the first lady, Dr. Apasra Macumbal-Mapupuno, MD who is also a member of PMA-LDS.
A distinguished panel of experts shared their insights on various aspects of mental health and skin care. Miara Fatima M. Mapandi, RPm, representing Dr. Aminoden B. Limpao of MSU-Panginam Healing and Wellness Center (PHWC), discussed the crucial relationship between skin health and mental well-being, emphasizing the importance of self-care for overall health. She also provided some tips for maintaining good mental well-being. Prof. Aufe G. Fallado, RPm of the Psychosocial Unit of APMC, provided practical strategies for managing stress and promoting mental resilience. Dr. Precious U. Imam, MD, DPDS of MSU-COM, explored the interplay between mental health and skin conditions, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to treatment. Lastly, Dr. Abdulnasser Macaalin, MD of APMC and PMA, provided valuable information on MPOX, also known as Monkeypox, a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus. This included prevention, symptoms, and treatment.
The event formally concluded with the closing remarks of Dr. Nasser O. Alimoda, MD, President of PAFPI. The forum served as a valuable platform for participants, who are also medical practitioners and professionals, to embody the significance of taking care of their own mental and physical health in order to provide good healthcare services to their patients. It also encouraged individuals to prioritize self-care.
