An awareness seminar was organized at Fatima Jinnah Medical University (FJMU) on World Mental Health Day by the Department of Psychiatry, Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Lahore.
The theme of World Mental Health Day is 2024, Mental Health in the Workplace. The main objective of the seminar was to make Mental Health a global priority.
In his welcome address, the VC Prof. Dr. Khalid Masood Gondal apprised that mental health is very effective for humanity, and it helps to live a healthy life and play a pivotal role in societies. He said that to avoid mental illness, it is necessary to establish a strong relationship with our Almighty Allah and the Quran.
The seminar featured prominent guest speakers, including Brig. Prof. Dr. Mowadat Hussain Rana, a renowned psychiatrist, delivered a comprehensive lecture on the importance of mental health facilities in the workplace.
He discussed the prevalence of anxiety and depression, noting that these two conditions are the most common mental health disorders worldwide.
Prof. Rana also advocated for workplaces to provide opportunities for students and employees to engage in brainstorming activities and life skills training, which can help alleviate the burdens of mental illness.
Former Health Minister Punjab, Prof. Dr. Javed Akram, served as the Chief Guest of the seminar. He lauded the university for its initiatives, particularly the establishment of the Student Counselling Centre at Fatima Jinnah Medical University.
"Good institutions are driven by good workers, and to ensure this, we must continuously improve the system that supports them," said Dr. Akram, emphasizing the role of mental health in institutional development.
The seminar saw a significant turnout, including faculty members, students, and esteemed guests such as Principal Prof. Abdul Hameed, former Vice Chancellor Prof. Shamsa Humayun, former Dean Prof. Munazza Iqbal, and several other senior figures from prominent medical institutions.
Discussions during the event focused on ways to enhance mental health support systems in educational and professional environments, ensuring that students and professionals can manage stress effectively.
At the conclusion of the seminar, honorary shields were presented to the key participants, including Prof. Dr. Javed Akram, Brig. Prof. Mowadat Hussain Rana, and other distinguished attendees, by Vice Chancellor Dr. Khalid Masood Gondal. The event was capped off with a symbolic walk aimed at raising awareness about the importance of mental health.