New Delhi- In a powerful show of solidarity for mental health awareness, the Department of Psychology at Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) marked World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2024, with an impactful awareness march, flagged off by Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakeel Ahmed.

The event, themed "Mental Health at Work," brought together students, faculty, and university leadership to shed light on a topic often overlooked. Addressing the gathering, Prof. Ahmed emphasized the importance of breaking the stigma around seeking help for mental health issues. He urged students and staff to prioritize their well-being without hesitation and proudly announced the establishment of a new Mental Health Unit in the Department of Psychology.

"This unit will cater to the specific mental health needs of Jamia's students, offering them the support they deserve," he stated. The march, which travelled through the university’s major faculties and institutions culminated in the main campus, where a street play captivated the audience, reinforcing the message of seeking help when needed.

The day's activities continued with engaging events, including a quiz competition titled Idraak, which saw enthusiastic participation and explored various aspects of mental health.

The celebrations wrapped up with a film screening aimed at sensitizing students and faculty about recognizing mental health challenges and providing support.

Prof. Sheema Aleem, the Head of the Department of Psychology, expressed her gratitude to the university community, noting, "Mental health awareness at the workplace is more important than ever, and we are proud to lead this initiative on our campus. We aim to empower our students with the tools they need to manage their mental health effectively and break the silence around this crucial issue.

As mental health continues to become a growing concern in workplaces and educational institutions across India, events like this highlight the importance of collective action. With the newly announced Mental Health Unit, Jamia Millia Islamia has taken a significant step in ensuring mental well-being is not only discussed but actively supported.