Abstract

The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) serves as a crucial platform for nurturing the next generation of community leaders by engaging youth in local governance and development initiatives. This study explores the lived experiences of Sangguniang Kabataan officials in relation to their mental health, aiming to shed light on the challenges they face and the coping mechanisms they employ. Using a qualitative research design with a transcendental phenomenological approach, the study was conducted in Cabuyao City, Laguna, and involved ten purposely selected ten (10) Sangguniang Kabataan officials. Semi-structured interviews facilitated the gathering of rich, in-depth data, which were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The study identified several key themes: coping mechanisms, leadership challenges and strategies, fostering a collaborative environment, self-care and rest, managing anxiety and pressure, personal growth and leadership development, and communication and teamwork. Based on the findings, the study recommends regular leadership workshops on stress and time management, enhanced mental health programs supported by local government units (LGUs), and the reinstitution of guidance and counseling services within barangays. Furthermore, it encourages future research to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions and investigate the long-term impacts of leadership on the mental health of SK officials. These insights aim to foster resilient and mentally healthy youth leaders, ensuring their sustained effectiveness in public service.