Confronting the Wellbeing Crisis: Supportive Communication as a Tool in Creating Healthier Philippine Universities
Zsa Zsa Bacaling-Cabag
Discipline: health studies
Abstract:
Communication is key to achieving wellbeing. In higher education
communities, it is critical to thrive and survive. However, in recent years, health
and wellbeing have been deteriorating in many universities worldwide, including
the Philippines. Despite the evidence, wellbeing remains marginalized as a topic
in many universities.
In this essay, I argue that the wellbeing crisis in higher education is not
just a health issue – it is a communication problem. Philippine higher education
institutions have an opportunity to create a culture and environment that foster
good health and wellbeing, yet most universities fail to communicate the value
of wellbeing for all, nor is it prioritized in the higher education agenda. We are
already seeing its negative impacts on quality of life, education, and academic
reputation.
Viewing wellbeing and communication from the lens of a communication
scholar and a trained yoga teacher, I present a case for action and support to
create healthier universities. I examine and criticize the culture of unhealthy
universities, advocate the value of communicating good health and wellbeing,
and propose ways university leaders can use supportive communication to create
healthier university communities.
This essay calls on Philippine higher education institutions to rethink
strategic priorities by emphasizing wellbeing in higher education conversations,
leaders to practice supportive communication and champion wellbeing practices,
and encourages communication scholars contribute to wellbeing research and
dialogue in the country.
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