UoD, October 18, 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO) — The University of Duhok (UoD) marked World Mental Health Day with a comprehensive awareness event organised by its Center for Psycho-Social Counseling and Student Services, in collaboration with local and international organisations, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Better World, Phoenix, and Nodam. Held under the theme “Experiences of Life Are Shared: Real Voices, Real Changes,” the event brought together UoD President Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, Vice President for Students Affairs and Graduates Dr. Nabaz Ibraheem Mohammed, college deans, academic staff, students, and representatives of government institutions and partner organisations.

The programme opened with welcoming remarks by Dilveen Miqdad Ahmed, Director of the Center for Psycho-Social Counseling and Student Services, who emphasised the importance of accessible psychological and social support for students. She highlighted the Center’s role in promoting mental health awareness, strengthening student well-being, and providing support services that contribute to a healthier and more supportive university environment. The opening session also featured a musical performance by students from the Department of Music at the College of Fine Arts.

A central part of the event was a scientific panel moderated by Dr. Siyar Tamar Sadeeq, from UoD’s Department of Educational Counseling. The panel brought together specialists to discuss different dimensions of mental health and well-being. Dr. Yousif Ali Yaseen, a mental health specialist from the College of Medicine, addressed the definition of mental health disorders, their identification, and their development within society. Dr. Zikra Ahmed, a psychiatrist at a mental health center, discussed mental health conditions affecting children and adolescents, highlighting key contributing factors and challenges during these stages of life.

Dr. Samya Saeed Khalid, Head of the Department of Sociology, College of Humanities, explored the social dimensions of mental health, emphasising the importance of family and community support and the influence of the social environment on individual well-being throughout different stages of life. Together, the panel discussions highlighted the importance of understanding mental health through medical, psychological, and social perspectives.

The programme also incorporated creative and practical activities to encourage student engagement. Students from the Department of Theatre at the College of Fine Arts performed a theatrical piece illustrating how events influence thoughts, emotions, attitudes, and behaviours. Outside the main hall, participants engaged in practical activities, including the use of virtual reality (VR) technology to explore emotional experiences and promote awareness, as well as an interactive workshop titled “My Step Towards Better Mental Health.” These activities encouraged participants to reflect on mental well-being and consider practical approaches to maintaining it.

Through this initiative, the University of Duhok reaffirmed its commitment to student-centered education, student well-being, inclusive support services, and community engagement, in line with the priorities of the University’s Strategic Plan. By bringing together academic expertise, student participation, and collaboration with local and international organisations, UoD continues to promote mental health awareness and contribute to a supportive campus environment in which students can learn, develop, and thrive.

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University Press Office, October 18, 2026
Reported by: Rondik Fadhil Adel
Photography: Mohammed A. Tahar

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