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The University of Sargodha (UoS) hosted an awareness walk and seminar to observe World Mental Health Day 2025 with the international theme "Working Together for Community Wellbeing".

The event was organized by Department of Psychology & Counseling Centre in collaboration with Fountain House Sargodha & Lahore, SOS Children’s Village Sargodha and MammaCare, to address the importance of collective efforts in promoting psychological wellbeing and combating mental health challenges within the community.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas graced the event as the Chief Guest, while Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Masood Sarwar Awan attended as the Guest of Honor. The distinguished guest speakers included Dr. Khawaja Arshad Pediatrician and Autism Specialist at Autism Care Centre Khawaja Arshad Hospital, Mr. Nadeem Noor Deputy Director of Fountain House Lahore, Dr. Tooba Illyas Psychiatrist at Royal College of Psychiatry London UK and Dr. Muhammad Illyas Khan Prof. of Public Health at McConnell University & MammaCare Associate USA.

Addressing the participants, Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas highlighted that true community wellbeing can only be achieved when institutions, professionals, and citizens work hand in hand to promote mental health awareness and support systems. He stressed the importance of fostering empathy, inclusion, and a culture of understanding, noting that “mental health is not just an individual concern, but a collective responsibility that defines the strength and compassion of a society."

The speakers delivered insightful talks on diverse dimensions of mental health. Dr. Khawaja Arshad discussed the growing prevalence of autism and the importance of early intervention and parental awareness. Mr. Nadeem Noor shared the role of Fountain House in community-based rehabilitation and how social support networks can transform lives of individuals battling mental illnesses.

Speaking via video link, Dr. Tooba Illyas highlighted the social and psychological factors behind suicide and the importance of community support and early intervention. Dr. Muhammad Illyas highlighted the impact of parents’ mental wellbeing on their children, emphasizing how parental psychological health directly influences both the mental and physical development of their children.

Prof. Dr. Najma Iqbal Chairman Department of Psychology, expressed gratitude to all participants, speakers, and collaborating organizations. She noted that the event aimed to raise awareness, foster understanding, and promote active engagement in community mental wellbeing.

Assistant Commissioner Ms Shireen Gull also graced the event and "highlighted the role of
Governmental initiatives for the mental health stability of community at large. She also appreciated the collaborative efforts and community outreach services of the Counseling center and university of sargodha."

The seminar also featured creative performances by mentally disabled children from Fountain House, adding an inspiring and lively dimension to the event. The program was attended by Deans, Directors, faculty members, and a large number of students.

Furthermore, an awareness walk, led by Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Masood Sarwar Awan, was also held to mark World Mental Health Day, with faculty members and students participating to promote mental health awareness.