Mental Health Awareness Programmes at Nursing College

 

Mental Health Awareness Programmes at Nursing College

ALIGARH, October 10: Various institutions of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) organised mental health awareness programmes to promote emotional well-being, encourage open discussions on mental health and sensitise students to stress management and the importance of seeking timely support.

The College of Nursing, AMU, in collaboration with the Rural Health Training Centre (RHTC), Department of Community Medicine, organised a programme at SMP Inter College, Jawaan, featuring a role play titled “Zaahir” on the theme “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change”. Conducted under the guidance of Prof. (Dr.) Farha Azmi, Principal, College of Nursing, the programme was coordinated by Mrs. Pamela S. Joseph, with Mrs. Deepti Minj and Mrs. Rubeena Naaz as co-coordinators. Students used the role play to highlight the importance of empathy, emotional support and reducing the stigma associated with mental health concerns.

The B.Sc. Nursing seventh-semester students also conducted a mental health awareness programme at Aligarh Bachchon Ka Ghar orphanage, where they interacted with children and discussed common myths and misconceptions about mental illness. They encouraged children to express their feelings and seek support from trusted individuals when needed.

STS School, AMU, organised an interactive session for students and staff in its Audio-Visual Lab. Mrs. Naushin Fatma spoke about emotional awareness, stress management, healthy routines and the importance of open communication. Principal Mr. Faisal Nafis emphasised that education should address students’ emotional and psychological well-being alongside academic development. Dr. Md. Alamgir, Vice Principal, was also present.

The Ahmadi School for the Visually Challenged organised an awareness programme featuring a speech by Class IX student Ms. Zara and educational videos on mental health and well-being. Saiyed Ahtasham Akbar, Officiating Principal, highlighted the importance of a safe and supportive school environment. The programme was conducted by Mrs. Nudrat Jahan, with support from Mrs. Bushra Abbasi.

AMU ABK High School (Girls) marked the occasion with a special assembly featuring student speeches and a documentary on mental health. Vice Principal Dr. Saba Hasan shared practical advice on maintaining emotional well-being, including adequate sleep, a balanced diet, physical activity, relaxation techniques and seeking guidance from trusted adults when facing difficulties.

Earlier, Hadi Hasan Hall organised a mental health awareness programme on “Mental Health and Stress Management in Hostel Life: Recognise, Cope and Seek Help”. Prof. Deoshree Akhouri of the Department of Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, AMU, spoke on recognising early signs of mental health concerns, managing academic and hostel-related stress, and seeking professional assistance. The programme was attended by around 70 students and residents, along with wardens and hall staff. Provost Prof. Adil Raza emphasised the need to foster a supportive and positive hostel environment. Dr. Shariq Ahmad proposed the vote of thanks.