The Counseling Unit of BRAC University organized two mental health awareness campaigns for students on 17 and 22 October 2022 marking World Mental Health Day. The World Federation for Mental Health observes the day on 10 October. This year’s theme was “Make Mental Health and Well-Being for All a Global Priority”.
The first campaign took place at the university’s Mohakhali campus whereas the second at the Residential Semester campus in Savar with Lady Syeda Sarwat Abed, Senior Director of the BRAC Institute of Languages, and Registrar Dr. David Dowland as the special guests respectively.
The objectives were to create awareness on mental wellbeing, eradicate stigma associated with mental health, explain the significance of seeking mental health support, apply some scientifically proven self-help tools to manage stress, and describe the activities of the Counseling Unit elaborately.
Different activities were arranged in booths based on visual, kinesthetic and auditory sensory channels such as Brain Gym, Butterfly Hug, Auditory Relaxation, Autonomic Sensory Meridian Response and Meditation. There were scales to measure stress, anxiety, and depression levels. All these self-administered activities helped participants release tension, manage the physical effects of stress, and enhance mindfulness.
The Social Impact Lab and BRAC University Monon Club participated in the campaign, with the latter organizing a mime performance, storytelling show, the rendition of songs and a dance performance portraying the significance of mental health care and how students can support each other respectfully. The campaign at the Savar campus appreciated and certified the efforts of students who worked as peer ambassadors to provide psychological first aid under the supervision of the Counseling Unit.