Empowering Minds: UOD’s College of Medicine Hosts Transformative Symposium on Personal Development and Mental Health
A Groundbreaking Discussion on Growth, Mental Well-being, and Digital Balance
On February 13, 2025, the University of Duhok (UOD) reaffirmed its commitment to holistic education and mental well-being by hosting a high-impact scientific symposium on personal development and mental health. Hosted by the College of Medicine (CMED), held at the Peshmerga Hall in the Student Center, the event attracted prominent faculty members, students, and mental health experts, reinforcing UOD’s dedication to fostering a balanced academic and personal life for its community.
Keynote Address: The Power of Mindset in Personal and Professional Growth
Dr. Parjan Hashim Taha, a mental health specialist and head of the Personal and Professional Development Program (PPDP), set the tone for the symposium with an inspiring keynote speech. He emphasized the critical role of adaptability in fostering innovation and success, stating:
"A person who cannot change their mind cannot innovate."
Dr. Taha urged attendees to embrace self-awareness, adaptability, and purposeful change as the driving forces behind personal and professional advancement. He reinforced the notion that each individual carries a unique purpose, and self-growth is a journey that requires continuous learning and resilience.
The Digital Age and Its Psychological Impact
A highlight of the symposium was a compelling presentation by medical student Maziar Adel, who delved into the psychological consequences of excessive social media usage. His discussion tackled key topics, including:
- The prevalence of social media addiction among young adults.
- The psychological toll of excessive digital engagement, including increased risks of anxiety and depression.
- Strategies to mitigate dependency, promoting a healthier approach to digital consumption.
Adel’s findings echoed global research linking social media overuse to heightened psychological distress, urging students to practice mindful digital habits to protect their mental health.
Applying Timeless Principles for Success
Further enriching the symposium, medical student Salar Sheikh Musa presented an analytical breakdown of Stephen R. Covey’s best-selling book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Musa’s presentation provided attendees with practical strategies for personal effectiveness, highlighting:
- Proactivity in decision-making.
- Prioritization of long-term goals over short-term distractions.
- The importance of continuous self-improvement.
By integrating Covey’s principles into academic and professional life, students were encouraged to develop habits that drive long-term success and fulfillment.
Mental Health in the Digital Age: A Closing Reflection
Wrapping up the discussions, Dr. Parjan Hashim Taha reinforced the urgent need for mental health awareness in an increasingly digital world. He cited studies linking excessive social media engagement with heightened anxiety, depression, and reduced self-esteem, emphasizing:
"We live in a digital era where online interactions shape much of our social experiences. While technology offers incredible opportunities, we must be mindful of its impact on our psychological well-being."
Aligning with UOD’s Strategic Vision for Holistic Development
This symposium exemplifies UOD’s strategic commitment to fostering a well-rounded academic community, where education extends beyond textbooks to encompass mental resilience, digital awareness, and personal growth. By initiating conversations around mental well-being and productivity, UOD empowers its students and faculty to cultivate a balanced, purpose-driven life.
Through initiatives like these, UOD continues to lead in higher education by addressing contemporary challenges, promoting self-development, and ensuring student success both inside and outside the classroom.
📍 UOD Media | February 17, 2025
📝 Reported by: Nibar Haji Hussein
📸 Photography by: Mohammed Abdulkareem Tahir
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