CBCP News Online Article

Group launches 'text counseling' for seafarers
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MANILA, 7 September 2007—A Church-based group has formed a public service program that would allow seafarers and their families to undergo counseling even through short messaging service (SMS).

UGAT Foundation, a Jesuit Family Apostolate for Grassroots Families, expressed concern over various “personal and relational stress” mostly suffered by seafarers abroad and their families in the Philippines.

In a bid to somehow address their concern, the organization this week launched “Daungan”, an online psycho-spiritual support system for Filipino seafarers and their families.

Its head Fr Nilo Tanalega, SJ, said the program offers free confidential counseling, resource articles on psycho-spiritual enrichment, opportunities for formation and active linkages to other seafarers/family of seafarers and trained counselors.

Access to a listening ear is as easy as sending an SMS to or calling mobile number 0915-9389715. At the other end of the line are trained volunteer counselors.

“Some of the perceived needs that could benefit from an accessible avenue for emotional ventilation are the loneliness due to temporary separation, the emotional numbing from the endless cycles of ‘hellos’ and ‘goodbyes’, the stress of responsible financial management and even support while fighting the many different temptations,” said Tanalega.

The priest said it’s not just individualized attention that the program offers but also “strategic linkages”.

He said that if for instance a personal counseling is needed, UGAT can easily refer the caller to a counselor near their area through its Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao networks of care providers.

“The counseling service is free, but standard call and text rates apply,” said Tanalega.

Through its weblog (daungan.blogspot.com), the program also provides for opportunities for seafarers/families of seafarers themselves to give their peers support and advice.

The site also offers articles, links and forums on a variety of psycho-spiritual topics like Marital/Family Enrichment and Gospel Reflections.

Tanalega said visitors can also use the blog to form communities and plan formation programs. (Roy Lagarde)

Fri, 09/07/2007 - 20:01 — CBCP News