In celebration of World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10, the College of Nursing at the University of Ninevah organized a scientific awareness symposium under the slogan:
“For a Resilient Human Being in the Face of Crises – Together for Mental Health.”
The symposium aimed to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and to highlight methods of prevention and psychological support for individuals at various life stages, particularly amid the modern challenges facing society.
The event began with an opening speech delivered by Prof. Dr. Radwan Hussein Ibrahim, Dean of the College of Nursing, who emphasized the significance of World Mental Health Day in promoting community awareness of emotional balance and its role in improving quality of life. He also reviewed the college’s achievements in supporting mental health at both the college and university levels, as well as its future vision to expand awareness and training programs that foster a university environment supportive of mental well-being.
The symposium witnessed a distinguished attendance, led by Prof. Dr. Mazahim Qasim Al-Khayyat, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Higher Education, who praised the college’s efforts in organizing scientific activities that promote mental health in both academic and community settings. He stressed the importance of integrating mental health concepts into national educational and health policies.
Also participating in the symposium was Prof. Dr. Ilham Khattab Al-Jammas, a senior professor and psychiatric consultant, who presented valuable scientific insights on the current state of mental health in Iraq and the challenges facing psychological support services. She underscored the need for partnerships between academic and medical institutions in this vital field.
The symposium featured a series of scientific lectures delivered by faculty specialists in psychiatric and mental health nursing, covering key topics such as:
• The importance of psychological support in academic and community environments
• The impact of mental disorders on quality of life and general health
• Positive coping strategies and stress management skills
Additionally, the symposium reviewed major World Health Organization (WHO) campaigns over the past five years, focusing on themes such as depression, mental health in the workplace, adolescent and youth support, suicide prevention, and community-based mental health care.
The Role of the College of Nursing at the University of Ninevah in Supporting Mental Health
Over the past five years, the College of Nursing has shown growing commitment to mental health by integrating it into academic curricula and organizing workshops and awareness campaigns within and beyond the university in collaboration with the Nineveh Health Directorate. The college has also participated in national initiatives aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraging individuals to seek professional help.
Educational programs have been implemented for students and healthcare professionals on effective communication, stress management, and self-care, contributing to a more aware and supportive university environment for mental well-being.
Recommendations of the Symposium
At the conclusion of the event, participants presented several key recommendations, including:
1. Strengthening cooperation between the College of Nursing and the Nineveh Health Directorate in community-based training and psychological support.
2. Incorporating training programs on mental health and psychological first aid into the nursing curriculum.
3. Conducting continuous awareness campaigns targeting students and community members to reduce the stigma associated with mental disorders.
4. Promoting scientific research in the field of mental health and psychological well-being in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In conclusion, the Dean of the College affirmed that such activities align with the university’s policy to promote holistic community health and support national efforts to improve quality of life and achieve sustainable development in Iraq.
