In a field where mental health often takes a backseat, Iqra University is driving the conversation in a new direction. On November 14, 2024, Iqra University didn’t just open its doors; it opened minds. With activities aimed at resetting mental compasses and boosting moods, the Department of Psychology’s Mental Wellness Fair 2024 was held at the Main Auditorium, EDC Campus in partnership with the Student Counselor and Wellbeing Society.
A Celebration of Calmness
Turning the auditorium into a carnival of calm, a fiesta of focus and fun, and a jamboree of joy for the students, faculty and staff members, the Mental Wellness Fair wasn’t just another university event, it was a loud declaration that Mental Health Matters and looking after it should be considered a priority.
Mirrors, Moods and Future
Innovative projects that questioned various notions about mental health were on display during the fair. Laraib Zulfiqar’s ‘Wonder of Mirror’ was one of many that asked participants to literally consider how they saw themselves and share positive affirmations. The ‘Mood Map’ by Minahil Yaseen offered a visual tour of the complex web of emotions. Myra Hassan, Hina Muharram, and Alyan’s ‘Uncover Your Future Self’ project urged participants to imagine, write a letter and mold their mental health.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation
The fair also introduced the attendees to the power of Progressive Muscle Relaxation – a technique that turns the simple act of tensing and relaxing muscles into a powerful tool against stress and anxiety. The participants learned to tense and relax muscles they didn’t even know they had, proving that sometimes, doing less is actually doing more.
The event also saw support from corporate allies including Tapal, Wellness Inclusive, Spark Consultants, Dr. Essa Laboratories, and Hemani, reflecting that mental wellness is not just an individual concern, but a community effort.
So, next time someone tells you that university is all about burning the midnight oil and stress-eating during finals, recommend Iqra University to them. Opting for one relaxation method at a time, Iqra University is nurturing minds rather than merely educating them. Who knew academic excellence could be so… relaxing? Isn’t it?
