The Department of Psychology at the University of Sindh observed World Mental Health Day by organising an awareness camp on the theme, “ Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change “ Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Fateh Muhammad Marri (TI) attended the event as the chief guest, inaugurated the camp and reviewed posters and video projects on mental health prepared by students of the Department of Psychology. The students also presented their projects to the Vice Chancellor, who appreciated their presentations and commended their efforts.

The students’ projects highlighted various aspects of mental health, including the importance of communication, the harmful effects of social isolation, mood changes, mental stress, anxiety, sleep and appetite problems, and their effects on health. They also focused on ways to avoid unnecessary worry, parents’ financial problems and the causes of their psychological distress, strengthening family bonds, building confidence and promoting healthy thinking, along with other factors related to and affecting mental health.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Fateh Muhammad Marri said that mental health was as important as physical health in building a healthy society. He said the purpose of observing World Mental Health Day worldwide was to raise awareness so that people could understand mental health issues and challenges, find solutions and help one another.

He said that universities were responsible not only for providing quality education but also for creating a supportive environment for students’ mental, emotional and social development through such activities. He added that improving students’ academic performance required appropriate guidance to help them cope with stress, adopt positive thinking and remain calm.

The Vice Chancellor said that unexpected incidents and various problems encountered in life could affect a person’s mental well-being, which was a natural response. However, the intensity of their effects could be reduced through patience, courage, effort, proper guidance and encouragement.

He stressed the need to eliminate social misconceptions and negative attitudes regarding mental health so that people experiencing psychological difficulties would not feel isolated or become overwhelmed by anxiety.

Dr. Marri said that the Department of Psychology is an important department of the university and could play a significant role in promoting mental health and raising awareness in this regard. He congratulated the department’s chairperson and her team on organising the programme.

On the occasion, Chairperson of the Department of Psychology Dr. Munza Malik thanked the Vice Chancellor for his participation, guidance and encouragement and highlighted the objectives of the programme.

The event was attended by Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences Professor Dr. Nanik Ram, Controller of Annual Examinations Muhammad Mashooque Siddiqui, faculty members of the Department of Psychology and a large number of students.

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