The initiatives were led by renowned national professor Dr M Iqbal Afridi, in collaboration with the Internal Medicine Interest Group (SMC-JSMU). This year’s theme focused on “Integrating Happiness and Sustainable Health Practices into Daily Life.”
Dr Afridi noted that in today’s fast-paced world, especially within the medical profession, mental stress is often normalised, burnout is ignored, and fatigue is silently endured. He stressed the need to break this cycle by equipping future doctors with practical coping strategies through expert-led interventions.
As part of the program, clinical psychologist Dr Yasmeen Khan conducted an interactive session on mindfulness and breathing techniques, while Dr Muhammad Khan, Director IPTTR-JSMU, demonstrated physical exercises aimed at reducing stress.
Experts highlighted global data showing that most mental health conditions begin before the age of 24, with nearly 40% of young people experiencing depression before turning 20 – underscoring the vulnerability of university students.
JSMU Vice Chancellor Prof Amjad Siraj Memon said the newly established centre would provide direct access to psychological and mental health services for students and faculty on campus. “We are ensuring that no one suffers in silence,” he said.