Psychology Week – La Chorrera UMECIT Campus

Saturday, June 14
We successfully started Psychology Week.
Psychology students from groups AA-2024 SCHO PSI and AA-2024 NCHO PSI held an enriching forum entitled: “The role of the psychologist in the community”, along with her teacher, Aleyda Wardrope. This activity marked the beginning of a week dedicated to highlighting the transformative work of our profession.

We count on the valuable participation of prominent mental health professionals in the province of Panama Oeste:

Psych. Haydeé Rodríguez, clinical psychologist and director of the Panamanian Association of Psychologists of Western Panama.
Psychologist Yaditzel Garrido, treasurer of the APPPO.
Psychologist Justo Emilio Herrera, member of the APPPO.
Psych. Ariadna Berguido, forensic psychologist.

During the day the following were addressed:

Theories of human behavior.
Expert experiences.
Challenges for psychologists in social interventions.
QR code display on prevention and community mapping.

We thus strengthen our graduate profile with a profound social, ethical, and community focus, fostering in our students not only the development of academic and professional skills, but also the sensitivity necessary to intervene responsibly and committedly in diverse social contexts.
A day of reflection, learning, and social commitment!

Monday, June 16
As part of Psychology Week, students from the General Psychology program at the La Chorrera campus, along with the Psychology Academic Coordination and the University Welfare Department, held a special event at the Virgen de La Milagrosa Home for the Elderly.

During this significant visit the following were carried out:

Delivery of personal hygiene products.
Mini-talks for caregivers on mental health well-being.
Recreational activities for older adults.
Awards ceremony and moments of shared joy.

Because it is also essential to bring a little joy, affection and companionship to our seniors, who have given so much and deserve to live this stage with dignity, smiles and comprehensive care.

Tuesday, June 17
A special event focused on the emotional well-being of our student community was held, organized jointly by the Academic Coordination of Psychology and the University Well-being Coordination.

In the morning, we received the coach Mayelis González, who led the workshop Mindfulness, inviting us to reconnect with the present, breathe consciously, and learn to care for what is not always visible, but which profoundly influences our emotional balance.

In the evening, final-year Psychology students led a workshop for incoming freshmen, providing practical tools for managing stress and anxiety during this new phase of university, from a close and supportive perspective.

Because learning is also accompanying, growing, and caring for the mind and heart.

Wednesday, June 18
We started the day with our radio program, where we talked about the topic “Care for the environment”, an enriching space that featured the special participation of Eng. Omaira Batista, representing Panamá Verde; the intervention of a final-year psychology student; and the valuable support of Lic. Jannis Briseño, Coordinator of University Welfare.
A dialogue that reminded us that caring for the environment also means caring for our mental health.

The discussion then took place “Let’s talk about mental health: let’s break down barriers”, led by Daniel Vásquez, a graduate in General Psychology and a UMECIT graduate, who shared his experiences and profound reflections on self-care, empathy, and the value of speaking without fear.

Thursday, June 19
The micro talk was held “When the body speaks what the mind is silent about”, addressed to our entire university community by the 2024 groups.

As part of our activities, third-year Psychology students from the La Chorrera campus presented the following micro-talk:
“Thoughts that heal, thoughts that make sick”,
A deep reflection on how certain mental patterns can directly influence our psychological well-being or discomfort.

Because what we think… matters more than we think!

In addition, the enriching workshop was developed:
“The art of caring, without neglecting yourself”,
guided by the specialist Neftalí Montenegro, who provided valuable tools to cultivate self-care without losing sight of our vocation of service.

Friday, June 20
The delivery of baby baskets took place at the Nicolás Solano Hospital, specifically in the postpartum area, as a show of solidarity and social commitment to mothers during this important stage of their lives.

In addition, psychoeducational materials focused on the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression were provided, promoting maternal mental health care based on knowledge, empathy, and psychological support.

Saturday, June 21
The delivery of was carried out Fortune Cookies, accompanied by messages alluding to Psychology and its impact on society.

Final-year students from the General Psychology program toured the halls and interacted with students from various programs, explaining the purpose of this celebration and the importance of highlighting the transformative role of psychology in all areas of life.

This activity was supported by the CASU Department. We especially thank the University Wellness Coordination for their ongoing commitment to the overall well-being of our students.