The cure for stress can be found in the same word itself
The recently concluded Capability Session, Coordination, and Year-End Workshop, initiated by the Market Development Division and held in Tagaytay City, CALABARZON Region, was indeed one of a kind and truly an eye-opener for me and my fellow participants.
What made it unique was the realization that the dreaded enemy called “STRESS,” which we inevitably experience as government workers or as ordinary individuals, has one simple cure—or surefire antidote—found in the word STRESS itself.
This is none other than REST! It refers to an instance or period of relaxation or ceasing to engage in strenuous or stressful activity.
This was the gist of the four-hour lecture-discussion delivered by Managing Director Patricio A. Ballecer, Jr. of PAB Training and Development Services, a well-known resource speaker and team-building facilitator recognized for leading the Leadership Breakthrough Workshop.
However, rest is not all there is in the word stress. Apart from the four-letter word “rest,” there is a double “S,” which Ballecer referred to as “Silent Struggle.”
It is tantamount to an anxious feeling which, if left unchecked, may lead to depression—an illness that affects millions of people worldwide and is often shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding.
Accordingly, many of us suffer in silence, fearing judgment or feeling isolated in our self-inflicted pain.
While each participant may have taken away different lessons from the lecture, I tried to summarize the entire morning session into a few key points:
The most common Stress Management Techniques include meditation, deep breathing, and regular exercise, all of which can help us cope with stress.
On Mental Health, one can overcome challenges by prioritizing self-care, seeking support from friends and loved ones, and helping reduce the stigma surrounding mental health discussions to promote emotional well-being.
Regarding Wellness, a holistic approach involving physical activity, a balanced diet, and meaningful social connections can enhance overall quality of life.
Furthermore, our resource speaker recommended several strategies to promote mental health and wellness, including:
1.Practicing mindfulness and self-care;
2.Building strong social support networks;
3.Engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment; and
4.Seeking professional help when needed.
Here are some practical steps that stress management experts often recommend:
As dedicated and hardworking employees, we should master the art of breaking down large tasks into smaller, more manageable ones.
Surely, each of us has many priorities—children, errands, workloads, and special assignments from our bosses, among others. When responsibilities overlap, it can quickly become overwhelming—especially in the aftermath of major crises like Typhoon Yolanda and the COVID-19 pandemic, which blurred the lines between home and work life.
Another important reminder is to ask for help when needed. We must remember that we are never alone. Whatever the task, our loved ones, co-workers, and colleagues are often ready to lend a helping hand.
When the workload feels too heavy, try delegating tasks to those you trust to help.
As much as possible, we should also squeeze in a quick morning workout on a regular basis. Starting the day with exercise can boost energy and focus. Even a short cardio session or simple “inhale-hold-exhale” breathing routine can make a difference.
When things get tough and endless requests pour in from family, friends, and co-workers, it can be tempting to agree to everything. But that can easily backfire if we’re not careful.
Let us not be afraid to say “no” when necessary. Trust your instincts—only you know what’s best for yourself and your family.
It is also important to find time to replenish our energy by prioritizing “me time.” That’s how we can feel and look our best.
It doesn’t have to be complicated—practice yoga, read a book, or watch your favorite show—whatever helps you recharge and find balance.
Lastly, we must give our body and mind the boost they deserve.
We are called to care for the health and wellness of those around us, but to do that effectively, we must first take care of ourselves.
How can we accomplish what we need to do if our resistance and energy levels are low?
Having heard these insights from an internationally renowned motivational speaker and team-building expert, I am eager to attend more of his future lectures and engagements with AMAS-AMAD. I even expressed my desire to invite him to conduct similar workshops for all employees of DA RFO 8.
After all, we must always remember the timeless adage: “Health is Wealth.”
Ascending higher than the present realities
What is the present reality in our country, today? You can just close your eyes and think deep, we can see the vivid images of systemic corruption and compromised institutions.
Rappler had given me staggering statistics. From flood control projects to climate adaptation funds, billions of pesos have been lost to graft, mismanagement, and ghost projects. A staggering P1.4 trillion was allocated to flood control between 2011 and 2025, yet only 40% was used for actual implementation. The rest? Wasted or stolen. Climate funds meant to protect vulnerable communities—up to P1.029 trillion—have also been compromised. International partners like South Korea have suspended major infrastructure loans due to corruption concerns. The Philippines risks losing trade privileges like the EU’s GSP+ if governance standards don’t improve.
In all, the reality is dark and sadly it may be darker beyond. Thus, we must rise from this darkness and go towards the light.
We must rise—not in anger, but in awareness. Not in rebellion, but in responsibility. The Filipino spirit is not defined by the corruption that surrounds it, but by the character that resists it. We are a people of faith, of family, of fierce love for country. And that love must be louder than the noise.
Let us teach our children that governance is not just for politicians—it is for every citizen who picks up litter, pays taxes honestly, and refuses to be bought. Let us remind ourselves that the fight against corruption is not waged only in courtrooms, but in classrooms, churches, and homes.
We rise when we refuse to be indifferent. We rise when we choose to build rather than break. We rise when we remember that the Philippines is not just a country—it is a covenant. A promise we make to each other, and to the generations yet unborn.
So let the noise rage on. Let the headlines scream. But let our actions whisper a different story. One of dignity. One of decency. One of a people who, despite it all, choose to rise.
Mabakdaw, matindog, mag uupay, maniniguro!