Lahore: In a significant nod to the importance of mental health, Punjab University’s Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali advocated for equal attention to mental well-being as to physical health during a speech at the World Mental Health Day awareness walk organized by the PU Center for Clinical Psychology.
According to University of the Punjab, Dr Ali addressed a large gathering of faculty members and students, underscoring the challenges posed by social, economic, and emotional issues that affect mental health. He highlighted the university’s commitment to providing mental health treatment and urged students, particularly those from the Center for Clinical Psychology, to apply their knowledge for public benefit and raise awareness about mental health in the community.
Prof Dr Saima Dawood, Director of the Center for Clinical Psychology, noted that in efforts to spread mental health awareness, stalls offering free mental health counseling were set up at five different locations across the university. The event also featured students displaying posters and chanting slogans to promote mental health awareness, reflecting a proactive approach to fostering a supportive environment.
Dr Ali also emphasized the role of spiritual faith in mitigating mental stress and encouraged female students to actively pursue roles in their professional fields that support mental health initiatives.