Tinian Poetry Slam amplifies student voices on mental health

Student participants and organizers have their picture taken after the PSS Mental Health’s Youth Poetry Slam last April 27, 2023, at the Tinian Junior Senior High School cafeteria. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

The power of poetry was used to amplify the voices of Tinian’s youth on mental health and identity last April 27, 2023, at the Tinian Junior Senior High School Cafeteria.

The PSS Mental Health’s Youth Poetry Slam invited students to step into a safe space and express themselves freely, combating stigmas surrounding mental health and fostering resilience.

Five poets shared their art, their thoughts touching on critical societal issues such as mental health, identity, and emotional resilience. One of the highlights was Jianna Jireh Cruz, the first-place winner, who said, “If we truly want to change the effect our society has on our children, we would have to listen to them.”

Third-place participant Tehya Santos echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the ripple effect of youth expression. “When the youth speak up, not only do they help themselves, they also create a positive change for others. It’s a win-win scenario.”

This event’s panel of judges, included Board of Education chair Antonio L. Borja, Tinian Municipal Council vice chair Marie San Nicolas, council member Steven Cabrera, BOE student representative Ryan Nuera, and PSS Mental Health School Community Council member Melanie B. Cruz.

Frank Lee Borja, PSS Mental Health project manager and Poetry Slam organizer, said, “In carving out a safe space and opportunity like this slam, we help others to see the humanity and complexity of mental health challenges and create a more compassionate and supportive community.”

Mary Hocog-Brazzle, PSS Mental Health behavioral health specialist, said it was an honor to witness the poets “share powerful stories of the challenges that many students face, but often find difficult to express due to the stigma attached to mental health. Our students must know that it’s okay to not be okay, help is available, and your counselors and PSS Mental Health are here to support you.”

The Tinian Mental Health team anticipates making this a yearly event to usher in Mental Health Awareness Month, reinforcing the importance of open dialogue and creating safe spaces for expression.

For more information and updates on their events, activities, and social media challenges for Mental Health Awareness Month, follow them on social media on @haligi.aware on Instagram and Haligi Aware on Facebook or contact Dr. Bobby Cruz, State Education Agency director for PSS Mental Health at bobby.cruz@cnmipss.org. (PR)