Ganderbal, Oct 10: The Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) observed World Mental Health Day 2026 by organising a one-day programme on the theme “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change” at its Tulmulla campus on Saturday.

Organised by the university’s Student Mental Health Task Force, the programme brought together academic leaders, mental health professionals, faculty members, research scholars and students to discuss emotional well-being, stigma and the need for accessible mental health support in educational institutions.
Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool, emphasised acceptance, open communication and mutual trust as essential to addressing mental health challenges. He identified reluctance to acknowledge emotional difficulties, share concerns and support others as major barriers to collective well-being.
Stressing the need for compassion in educational settings, he said teachers must recognise the individual needs of students and respond with patience and sensitivity. He appreciated the university’s initiative and called for extending similar attention to research scholars, faculty members and non-teaching staff.
Registrar Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir highlighted the impact of unrealistic expectations and unfulfilled aspirations on mental well-being. He urged students to pursue a balanced life, practise empathy and avoid judging others without understanding their circumstances.
Chief Proctor and Dean, School of Legal Studies, Prof. Farooq Ahmad Mir, stressed positive thinking, contentment and a balanced outlook towards life. He encouraged participants to cultivate goodness in their thoughts and actions while cautioning against allowing anger, negativity and resentment to undermine personal well-being.
Nodal Officer of the Student Mental Health Task Force and Dean, School of Business Studies, Prof. Syed Zahoor Ahmad Geelani, called for active listening and greater sensitivity towards students facing academic, family and personal pressures. He advocated stronger counselling infrastructure, a confidential helpline, online appointment facilities and the appointment of a dedicated psychological counsellor at the university.
Clinical Psychologist Muzaffar Ahmad said mental health difficulties should not be dismissed as personal weaknesses or failures. He highlighted how misconceptions and social stigma discourage people from acknowledging emotional distress and seeking professional help. He also cautioned against relying solely on motivational messages when proper assessment and professional intervention are needed.
Earlier, Senior Assistant Professor Dr. Gulafroz Jan said student mental health must be treated as an integral component of higher education rather than a peripheral welfare concern. She drew attention to the emotional challenges associated with academic pressure, loneliness, family expectations and uncertainty about the future.
During the second technical session, Head of the Department of Physical Education Dr. Kaukab Azeem spoke on the relationship between physical well-being and mental health, while consultant psychiatrist Dr. Aijaz Suhaff of IMHANS deliberated on the programme’s central theme.
Dean, School of Education, Prof. C. Naseema; Dean of Students’ Welfare, Dr. Jehirul Islam; faculty members, research scholars, administrative staff and students attended the programme.
Dr. Ibraq Khursheed of the Department of Zoology conducted the proceedings, while Medical Officer Dr. Sheeba proposed the vote of thanks.
The programme underscored the need to foster a supportive campus environment where students can speak openly about emotional difficulties, access professional assistance and seek help without fear of stigma or judgement.