LAHORE: In an effort to spotlight the importance of mental health alongside physical well-being, Punjab University Vice Chancellor, Prof Dr Muhammad Ali, emphasized the critical need for awareness and proper treatment of mental illnesses. Leading an awareness walk organized by the university’s Center for Clinical Psychology (CCP), Dr. Ali highlighted the growing prevalence of mental health issues, citing economic hardship, domestic disputes, and natural disasters as contributing factors.

The awareness walk, which saw enthusiastic participation from faculty members and students, commenced at the CCP and concluded at the Vice Chancellor’s office. During his address, Dr. Ali praised the CCP’s initiative, stating that acknowledging and seeking help for mental health issues should be viewed as a strength rather than a weakness. He also touched upon the importance of preemptive testing before cousin marriages to prevent potential health issues.

Dr. Humaira Naz, the in-charge of the CCP, expressed gratitude to participants and the Vice Chancellor, noting that the campaign included the establishment of camps across ten different locations at the university. These camps provided education, initial screening facilities, and aimed to raise mental health awareness among community members.

Students, under their professional training and community outreach programs, played an active role in the campaign. The initiative was met with appreciation from participants, who underscored the necessity of such measures in fostering a mentally healthy and informed society. Banners carried by participants during the walk advocated for mental health importance, self-awareness, and the reduction of psychological diseases.