The Mandaue City Government is set to add three psychometricians to help address the limited availability of mental health personnel in public schools.
The additional personnel will be deployed through the City Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Office (SAMHSO) following a multi-agency meeting on Wednesday involving the city government, Department of Education-Mandaue, Mandaue City Police Office and other concerned offices.
Lawyer Riczen Gingoyon, executive secretary to Mayor Thadeo “Jonkie” Ouano, said the shortage of mental health personnel in public schools was among the concerns raised during the meeting.
Mandaue has 48 public schools, while the number rises to around 90 when private schools are included. Gingoyon said private schools generally have guidance counselors, but only a few public schools have similar personnel.
The three psychometricians will be assigned under SAMHSO and provide psychological support to students who may need assistance.
“Ni-okay si Mayor nga mu provide siya og three psychometricians really to address these issues,” Gingoyon said.
The city is also considering a clustering system in which one psychometrician could serve several schools within a designated area.
Initially, the psychometricians will be based at the SAMHSO office, which will serve as a venue for students seeking assistance. The city expects to launch the initiative in September.
Gingoyon said the meeting also highlighted the need for parents and teachers to recognize behavioral changes that could indicate a student is experiencing difficulties.
He cited sudden changes in personality or interests as possible warning signs, such as an outgoing child becoming withdrawn or a student losing interest in activities they previously enjoyed.
Gingoyon urged parents and teachers to pay attention to such changes and initiate conversations with students who may be struggling, noting that early support could help address concerns before they worsen.
Photo courtesy of Mandaue City PIO
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