Volume 07 Issue 10 October 2024
1Eleanor Yap Buot, 2Josie Zayas Insigne, 3Lenard P. Lachica, 4Divina Gracia Gamarcha, 5Ralph Vendel E. Musni
1Capitol University, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines
2Capitol University, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines
3Capitol University, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines
4Mater Carmeli School of Dingle, Inc., Dingle Iloilo, Philippines
5University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines
DOI : https://doi.org/10.47191/ijsshr/v7-i10-40Google Scholar Download Pdf
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to determine the emotional reactions, coping strategies, and realizations of university employees during the pandemic as a basis for enhancing a mental health program. Descriptive qualitative research design was used in the study. Data were gathered online through an interactive activity called “Kumustahan”. Findings revealed that the majority of the respondents felt scared, anxious, and worried about getting infected; sad about their limited mobility; stressed with online classes and technology-related concerns; and depressed about being quarantined and the untimely death of a family member, relative, or friend. Employees’ coping strategies include relaxation like gardening, watching Netflix, and playing cyber games; doing household chores; performing spiritual activities; maintaining an active social life via social media; and minimizing online working hours. Despite the negative emotions, the majority were happy with the “work-from-home” and “online classes” of their children. Employees realized the importance of prayers and family; acceptance of events beyond man’s control; feeling of equality regardless of social status; and the need to adapt to change and follow health protocols. In conclusion, employees experienced both negative and positive emotions and coped through problem-based, emotion-based, and religious-based strategies. By finding positive meaning to the situation, they gained positive insights that helped them sustain sound mental health.
KEYWORDS:Coping strategies; COVID 19 pandemic; Emotional reactions; Realizations; University employees
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