NIP_IOM
Uplifting Mental Health of Vulnerable Segments of Population
2 Days Training Workshop Schedule
Workshop Flyers
Seminars on Mental Health
Webinar on Mental Health
MEIDA TALK
Foresight: Mental Health of Disadvantaged People
8th May, 2024
Mental Health of Disadvantaged People was the exclusive program telecasted on 8th May 2024 in Foresight series of PTV World anchored by Mr. Faisal Raza. Being an expert in the field of psychology, Dr. Humaira Jami (Assistant Professor, National Institute of Psychology) shared that disadvantaged individuals face stigma based upon their race, ethnicity, religion, caste, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or socioeconomic status that compromises their dignity, respect, and social inclusion. It challenges their mental health. Prevailing stereotypes and prejudices in society reduce the opportunities for such people to have better life and they remain closeted for the fear of discrimination and abuse. Internalized stigma and the culture of shaming of those who are different lead to depression, anxiety, suicide, substance use, etc. She also shared that NIP is working at multiple levels to uplift the mental health services to disadvantaged population. Dr. Murtaza Ahmed (Neurosurgeon, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital) added that resultantly stressors in life lead to various health issues including stress related infections, malnutrition, and other health problems. Being in socially weaker position, experiencing violence, abuse, and trauma are common in disadvantaged communities. They lack adequate support systems due to poverty, pushed to peripheries, displacement, housing insecurity, homelessness, or living in deprivation and unhygienic conditions exacerbate mental and physical health issues. Access to and availability of health care services for them is scarce. Dr. Malik Hammad Lang (Human Rights and Peace Educationist) stressed that most disadvantageous among all are women in minority status. Pakistan is overly legislative country and have many human rights commissions to uplift people in disadvantageous status. Unfortunately, implementation of laws drastically lags in every forum. Law enforcing agencies lack understanding of mechanism of implementation. After 18th Amendment, provincial governments are responsible to implement mental health policy. As per UN Sustainable Developmental Goals 3 and 4 uplifting mental health should be the priority of across the globe. Creating cordial relationships needs to be strengthened between majority and minority for better and happy living. Awareness of existing laws and policies are key to advocacy of rights of disadvantaged people at the grass root level. Dr. Humaira Jami stressed that as per Mental Health Act 2002, we need to promote advocacy of right to easy access and availability of mental health services, inclusivity of diversity, destigmatization of mental health problems, through public awareness and trainings of service providers and healthcare providers. Telemedicine can be the wonderful facility to make mental health services more accessible and available for people in stigmatised and disadvantageous status.
PODCAST
Psychological needs of Children and Adolescents
6th May, 2024
Childhood and adolescence is a period of extreme importance for creating productive youngsters. A special radio podcast was organised by Radio Pakistan to highlight the need to cater to the current psychological needs of children and youngsters. The program was conducted on 6th of May 2024. Panellists Dr. Nelofar Rauf (Assistant Professor, National Institute of Psychology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad) and Ms. Raiha Aftab (Lecturer, National Institute of Psychology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad) and host Mr. Tasawur Hayat had a fruitful discussion on various aspects of trauma, psychosocial support and post traumatic growth. The panellists shared that parenting is not just about providing food and shelter; it plays a pivotal role in shaping the attitudes and outlook of children and adolescents. A growing body of research underscores the profound influence of parenting styles, behaviours, and interactions on the development of positive attitudes in young individuals, influencing their academic success, social relationships, and overall well-being.
Parents who exhibit warmth, responsiveness, and emotional support tend to raise children with a positive outlook on life. By fostering a nurturing environment characterized by love and acceptance, these parents instil in their children a sense of self-worth and confidence, laying the foundation for a positive attitude towards themselves and the world around them.
Moreover, the role of parental modeling cannot be overstated. Children learn by observing and imitating their parents’ behaviours and attitudes. When parents demonstrate resilience in the face of challenges, maintain an optimistic perspective, and practice gratitude and empathy, they provide powerful role models for their children to emulate. These positive behavioural cues help children develop adaptive coping strategies and a resilient mindset, essential components of a positive attitude.
Dr. Nelofar shared that National Institute of Psychology, Centre of Excellence, Quaid-i-Azam University provides counselling and psych-social support for issues related to the needs of families, children and adolescents. In the context of present scenario of sociopolitical situation in Pakistan, everyone is facing the health-related issues and experts’ advice can be/ should be sought when needed.
UPLIFTING MENTAL HEALTH OF WOMEN
5th May, 2024
In the context of present scenario of sociopolitical situation in Pakistan, everyone is facing the health related issues but women are more vulnerable, so the issue was discussed on Radio Pakistan in Current Affairs program on May 5, 2024. Dr. Irum Naqvi (Assistant Professor, National Institute of Psychology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad) and Ms. Sara Imtiaz (Research Associate cum Lecturer, National Institute of Psychology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad) participated in the program as experts. The points under discussion were as follows:
Women in Pakistan face multiple challenges due to the patriarchal society, cultural norms, and gender inequality, which can lead to mental health concerns. As per the careful estimation 50 million people (one in four) in Pakistan experienced mental health issues. Stigma and poor awareness is the common reason for that and do not seek help, and 90% of those needing treatment cannot access support.
With reference to developmental context, women are at disadvantage during the prenatal period, getting to know about gender of fetus, mother has to go through a lot of traumatic experiences. Then birth of a girl is taken as a matter of sorrow. Later on better eatables are offered to male children. Likewise, education and work related opportunities are prohibited later on.
In Pakistan, girls’ education is often neglected due to cultural and religious beliefs, leading to limited opportunities for women. This can lead to feelings of worthlessness, low self-esteem, and depression.
Gender-based violence including domestic violence, sexual harassment, and honour killings are of significant concern for women in Pakistan. Such violence can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
Women’s employment opportunities are limited in Pakistan, with many women facing discrimination in the workplace. This can lead to financial insecurity, low self-esteem, and depression.
Women in Pakistan often lack support from their families, communities, and the government, leading to a sense of isolation and loneliness, which can exacerbate mental health concerns.
Mental health is often stigmatized in Pakistan, with many people associating mental illness with weakness or lack of faith. This can prevent women from seeking help and support for their mental health concerns.
Strategies to Improve Mental Health
As experts it was discussed that there are several solutions that can help to empower women in Pakistan and elevate their mental well-being. Some of these solutions include:
Improve education for girls. This include building more schools and providing scholarships and financial support for girls to attend school.
The government should pass and enforce laws that protect women’s rights, including laws against gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and discrimination in the workplace.
The government and private sector should work together to create more job opportunities for women, particularly in sectors that are traditionally male-dominated. This includes providing training and skills development programs.
There needs to be greater awareness and acceptance of mental health issues in Pakistan, particularly among women. This includes promoting mental health services and support systems, as well as educating the public about mental health.
Families, communities, and religious leaders can play an important role in supporting women’s empowerment and mental health. They can promote gender equality, reduce stigma around mental health, and provide emotional and social support to women in need.
The media and technology can be powerful tools for women’s empowerment, particularly in remote or marginalized communities. The government and private sector should promote access to information and communication technologies and creative media campaigns that promote gender equality and mental health awareness.
In conclusion, empowering women in Pakistan and improving their mental well-being requires a multi-faceted approach that involves government, private sector, civil society, and communities working together. By promoting education, legal reforms, economic empowerment, mental health awareness, community support, and media and technology, we can create a more just and equitable society where women can thrive.
News Reports
2-Day Training Workshop on
Uplifting Mental Health of Socio-economically Disadvantaged Individuals
May 13-14, 2024
A 2-day training workshop on Uplifting Mental Health of Socio-economically Disadvantaged Individuals was organized by the National Institute of Psychology on 13-14, May 2024. The resource person for the workshop was Ms. Sonia Ahmed, a multicultural psychotherapist from Canada, specializing in culturally sensitive counselling and psychotherapy.
There were four learning modules that were based on eight sessions executed in two days. On day one module 1 and module 2 were covered where module 1 was understanding of disadvantaged communities that was elaborated in two sessions, understanding disadvantaged communities with practical implications in healthcare settings and factors underlying mental health of disadvantaged people. Module 2 focused on assessment of mental and physical health problems in disadvantaged communities. It was carried out in two sessions, assessment of internalizing problems and assessment of problems having physical health outcomes. Module 3 and module 4 were discussed on day two of the workshop. The focus of module 3 was disadvantaged populations: treatment and interventions spanned in two sessions i.e., addressing personal biases when working with disadvantaged populations and therapeutic interventions. Module 4 empowering disadvantaged people was spanned over three sessions i.e., 1. protection policies and laws, 2. strengthening support system and 3. counselling skills.
Ms. Ahmad covered various aspects of the challenges faced by disadvantaged people, including stigmatization, marginalization, abuse, trauma, violence, prejudice, and stereotypes. She also discussed factors influencing disadvantaged status, such as human trafficking and domestic abuse etc. The assessments of various psychological problems were done through hand on activities, such as role plays, brain storming, and discussions. Additionally, Ms. Ahmad highlighted the existing protection policies and laws in Pakistan for disadvantaged individuals.
The participants of the workshop were clinical psychologists, academicians, therapists, speech language pathologists, counsellors, medical practitioners, shadow teachers, child psychologists, and internees from a wide array of public and private organizations such as Alkaramzada International Network, Abeer ul Haq studio, Bahria University, Riphah International University, International Open University, National University of Technology, Quaid-i-Azam University, PIMS Hospital, Happy Life Psychological Services, Pakistan Railway Hospital, SOS Child Village, Pakistan Railway Hospital, Soch Clinic Media Town, Edopia School, and Beaconhouse Newland.
The workshop was facilitated by Assistant Professors, Dr. Humaira Jami and Dr. Haleema Sadia, successfully fostered active engagement and dialogue among participants, allowing for in-depth discussions on promoting inclusivity and support for disadvantaged populations in Pakistan. Participants raised significant concerns, particularly regarding the implementation of advocacy acts, highlighting the need for deeper exploration of policy advocacy strategies and legal frameworks, especially for the transgender community. Participants gained insights into the lived experiences and challenges faced by disadvantaged communities, fostering empathy, and understanding that can inform more inclusive and equitable practices in their professional and personal lives. The workshop was made successful under the visionary leadership and practical support of Professor Dr. Rubina Hanif director National Institute of Psychology in collaboration with International Organization of Migrants.
Seminar on
Gender Inequality in Contemporary Societies: History, Challenges, and Resolutions
May 13, 2024
Seminar on
How to be Unbiased in Accepting Diversity and Enhancing Inclusivity
May 9, 2024
National Institute of Psychology at Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, hosted a seminar titled “How to be Unbiased in Accepting Diversity and Enhancing Inclusivity,” on May 09, 2024. The resource person of this seminar was Ms. Sonia Ahmad, a Canadian Clinical Counsellor and Registered Psychotherapist known for her expertise in multicultural therapy from Yorkville University. She has dedicated her career to caring for disadvantaged populations through her private practice. The seminar commenced with an inaugural session by the worthy Director of the National Institute of Psychology, Professor Dr. Rubina Hanif, who warmly welcomed Ms. Sonia Ahmad and all the participants. The facilitators for the seminar were Dr. Humaira Jami and Dr. Haleema Saadia. The objectives of the seminar were outlined to enhance empathy, move away from shame-based culture, and raise awareness of existing laws and policies for vulnerable populations in Pakistan. Ms. Sonia Ahmad’s presentation was engaging and thought-provoking, encouraging active participation from the attendees. Her expertise and passion for promoting safe and supportive spaces for diverse individuals on their healing journeys were evident throughout the seminar. Participants from diverse organizations praised Ms. Ahmad’s ability to articulate complex concepts with clarity and empathy, making the seminar both informative and inspiring. Overall, the seminar was a resounding success due to the collaborative efforts of all involved. It served as a catalyst for promoting diversity, inclusivity, and empathy within the field of psychology and beyond.
2-Day Training Workshop on
Uplifting Mental Health of Elderly
May 8-9, 2024
On May 8th and 9th, 2024, the National Institute of Psychology hosted the third series of two-days training workshop on “Uplifting Mental Health of Elderly.” Dr. Kaneez Fatima Shad professor in Neuroscience and Translational Clinical Researcher from Sydney, Australia, led the workshop as a resource person.
The workshop covered a spectrum of neurological and psychological problems faced by elderly such as trauma, abuse, neglect, and intervention strategies in six sessions. The workshop focused on equipping participants to identify and address challenges faced by elderly individuals, such as cognitive decline and abuse. Through interactive sessions, participants gained practical skills in screening, diagnosis, and intervention specifically designed for elderly populations. Collaboration was also a key theme, with the workshop fostering communication and teamwork among healthcare providers. The third cohort of the participants was form: Pak Young Psychologists Academy, Riphah International, Subhan Medical Center, International Open University, Global School of Special Children, Siraat Serving Humanity, Rawalpindi Teaching Hospital, Ali Medical Hospital, Happy Life Psychological Services, Medicine Sans Frontiers, National Institute of Psychology, College of Dentistry, Foundation University, Hope Society Pakistan, International Islamic University, National University of Medical Sciences, Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy), District Head Quarters.
Immersive activities like lectures, group discussions, role-playing, and case studies intensified the learning journey. With a diverse audience comprising healthcare professionals and mental health and psychosocial support, the workshop fostered meaningful exchanges and collaborative learning opportunities in identifying elderly mental health challenges and implementing effective well-being strategies. Dr. Naeem Aslam and Dr. Aisha Zubair Assistant Professors at NIP contributed developing insights into indigenous issues of elderly individuals. Professor. Dr. Zafar Nawaz Jaspal dean social sciences graced the event as it was the last series of workshop on uplifting mental health of elderly. Dr. Jaspal presented shields and appreciated Ms. Shad and team NIP for capacity building and trainings of healthcare practitioners. This valuable platform, under dynamic and visionary Prof. Dr. Rubina Hanif, Director of the National Institute of Psychology, was held in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM). It aimed to enhance awareness, knowledge, and skills related to uplifting the mental health of the elderly population.
Seminar on
How to be Unbiased in Accepting Diversity and Enhancing Inclusivity
May 8, 2024
On May 8th, 2024, the National Institute of Psychology at Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, hosted a seminar titled “How to be Unbiased in Accepting Diversity and Enhancing Inclusivity.” The seminar, facilitated by Dr. Humaira Jami and Dr. Haleema Saadiya, featured Ms. Sonia Ahmad, a distinguished Canadian Clinical Counsellor and Registered Psychotherapist, Ms. Ahmad completed her Master of Arts in Clinical and Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. She has dedicated her career to caring for disadvantaged populations through her private practice, The Multicultural Therapist. Her areas of expertise include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for children with autism, multiculturalism, and inclusivity. as the resource person. The seminar began with an opening session led by the esteemed Director of the National Institute of Psychology, Professor Dr. Rubina Hanif, who extended a warm welcome to Ms. Sonia Ahmad and all the attendees. Ms. Ahmad’s insightful contributions added depth and resonance to the seminar, enriching the discourse on diversity and inclusivity. The seminar aimed to achieve several objectives, including fostering an understanding of biases and stereotypes, exploring strategies to promote inclusivity in diverse settings, and enhancing empathy and cultural competence among participants, engaging in spirituality for improving mental health. Attendees hailed from esteemed organizations of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The session was characterized by its interactive and engaging nature, encouraging active participation and meaningful exchanges among participants. Participants raised questions regarding religiosity in mental health, highlighting the significance of spirituality, while religious scholars emphasized its role. One transgender participant appreciated the diversity of the forum, suggesting the need for more such seminars. With a diverse array of attendees, including student affairs and administrative in-charge, faculty members, religious scholars, paramedics, clinical psychologists, mental health practitioners, police personnel and directors fostered a collaborative atmosphere conducive to learning and growth. Overall, it served as a platform for dialogue and reflection, paving the way for greater inclusivity and understanding in the community.
Seminar on
Embracing Aging: Insight into Elderly Care and Well-being
May 6, 2024
The seminar titled “Embracing Aging: Insight into Elderly Care and Wellbeing,” held on May 6, 2024, at the National Institute of Psychology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad was facilitated and moderated by Dr. Ayesha Zubair and Dr. Naeem Aslam respectively, providing a platform for attendees to engage in discussions assisted by the esteemed Australian neuroscientist, Professor Dr. Kaneez Fatima, over three decades of remarkable achievements in research, teaching, and administration. Dr. Fatima, holding a Ph.D. from UNSW and a Graduate Certificate in Medical Education from the University of Newcastle, has held prestigious academic positions globally and has secured substantial international grants, particularly in Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease research. Pioneering Patch Clamping technology in Pakistan and founding the Pakistan Society of Basic & Applied Neurosciences (PASBAN) are among her notable contributions. The seminar, marked by its interactive nature, aimed to foster engaging discussions on strategies for enhancing the wellbeing of the elderly, with a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative approaches to elderly care, to enhance quality of life of elderly individuals, to provide insight into the challenges and opportunities associated with aging, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative diseases such as Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Attendees from organizations of Rawalpindi and Islamabad actively participated in discussions, inspired by Dr. Fatima’s illustrious career and her dedication to advancing gerontology. The session was highly interactive, allowing participants to engage deeply with the subject matter and exchange valuable insights and experiences.
2-Days Training Workshop on
Uplifting Mental Health of Women: Trauma, Violence and its Impact on Mental Health and Wellbeing of Women
May 6-7, 2024
A 2-day training workshop on “Trauma, Violence and its Impact on Mental Health and Well-being of Women” was organized by the National Institute of Psychology on 6th-7th, May 2024. Prof. Dr. Fayyaz Hussain working in Center for Integrative Studies, Social Science, Michigan State University, USA and Ms. Maqsooda Solangi, working as Coordinator Women Empowerment with Aurat Foundation, Pakistan were the resource persons for this workshop. The second cohort of participants rendering their services in public and private sector organizations of Pakistan namely, Pakistan Military Academy, Happy Life Psychological Services, Rozan, Health International, International Medical Corps, Secours Islamique France, Caring Ways International, Cosmopolitan Lighthouse of Visionaries, Benazir Bhutto Shaheed Hospital, Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning, Soch Clinic, Karwan-e-Pakistan, Dareecha, and NUMS in the workshop.
There were three learning modules that were based on six sessions executed in two days. Focusing on learning of the participants with possible trauma or violence and its impact on mental health challenges faced by women in Pakistan. Trainers specifically focused on how violence is the most common threat to women’s mental health and focused on tremendous steps to promote gender equality and reduce gender related issues such as GBV. Different sessions highlighted the research findings and evidence on this particular issue. Women’s empowerment module specifically focused on the uplifting of women’s sense of self-worth, their right to have and to determine choices; their right to have access to opportunities and resources; their right to have power to control their own lives, both within and outside the home; and their ability to influence the direction of social change to create a more just social and economic order, nationally and internationally. Moreover, during the training participants were encouraged to learn the strategies to handle the cases and focus on exploring adaptation of best practices making way to sound health of women. Participants were engaged in multiple practical exercises such as brain storming sessions, role plays; hand on exercises, and active listening sessions. Participants were very happy by the fact that workshop was based on activity based learning through which they learnt a great deal about plan of action in their respective field of work. Dr. Iram Naqvi, Assistant Professor and Ms. Sarah Imtiaz Research Associate cum Lecturer at NIP contributed developing insights into indigenous issues of women. It was a worth platform under the dynamic leadership of Prof. Dr. Rubina Hanif, Director of the National Institute of Psychology, was held in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM). It aimed to enhance awareness, knowledge, and skills related to uplifting the mental health and empowerment of women.
2-Day Training Workshop on
Uplifting Mental Health of Elderly
May 2-3, 2024
The National Institute of Psychology, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), conducted a dynamic 2-day training workshop titled “Uplifting Mental Health of Elderly” on May 2-3, 2024. Renowned expert Dr. Kaneez Fatima Shad, a distinguished professor of Neuroscience and Translational Clinical Researcher from Sydney, Australia, led the workshop as the resource person; while Dr. Naeem Aslam and Dr. Aisha Zubair Assistant Professors at NIP contributed developing insights into indigenous issues of elderly individuals. Mental health care practitioners and healthcare providers from various public and private sector organizations in Pakistan participated in the workshop. Delving into the intricate realm of elderly mental health, the workshop delivered immersive knowledge and awareness on prevalent neurological and psychological issues. Dr. Shad assembled vital expertise in identifying and alleviating instances of neglect, trauma, violence, and abuse, equipped with customized screening and intervention techniques tailored to the unique needs of elderly. Immersive activities like lectures, group discussions, role-playing, and case studies intensified the learning journey. With a diverse audience comprising healthcare professionals and mental health and psychosocial support, the workshop fostered meaningful exchanges and collaborative learning opportunities in identifying elderly mental health challenges and implementing effective well-being strategies. Overall, it served as a valuable platform provided under the visionary leadership of Prof. Dr. Rubina Hanif, director National Institute of Psychology for enhancing awareness, knowledge, and skills related to uplifting the mental health of the elderly population.
Seminar on
Uplifting Mental Health of Vulnerable Segments of Population in Pakistan
May 2, 2024
On May 2nd, 2024, the National Institute of Psychology (NIP), Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, in collaboration with Pegham-e-Pakistan hosted a seminar titled “Uplifting Mental Health of Vulnerable Segments of Population in Pakistan,” under their project sponsored by IOM. Prof. Dr. Rubina Hanif (Director NIP) welcomed Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zia Ul Haq (Director General, Islamic Research Institute, International Islamic University, Islamabad) as the distinguished resource person of the talk. He reflected upon mental health outcomes in context of gender-based violence and sufferings of children, elderly, and people living in deprived condition. He shared thoughts with wealth of expertise in Comparative Fiqh, a commendable record of academic leadership, and peace-building initiatives. The seminar drew participation from 281 attendees from Fraternity of Psychology representing various esteemed institutions in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, including the Directorate Federal Board of Colleges, ICT colleges, Bahria University, Islamic International University, Foundation University, National University of Modern Languages, Rawalpindi Women University, and SZABIST. The esteemed presence of Professor Dr. Shafique Ur Rehman, Registrar of QAU, added further significance to the event. The key objectives of the Seminar were: (1) Raise awareness and Increase Understanding of participants about the unique mental health challenges faced by vulnerable segments of the Pakistani population, including women, children and adolescents, elderly, and marginalized communities living in deprived conditions. (2) Promote inclusivity and foster dialogue among stakeholders and service providers specifically from psychology background. (3) Identifying social, cultural, economic, and systemic barriers hindering access to mental health services for vulnerable populations, with a focus on exploring potential solutions to overcome these obstacles. Dr. Zia-ul-Haq particularly invited all participants to do focused research to find reasons for violence against women and children and find solutions to address the problem. He emphasized promoting stigma reduction and mental health literacy at both individual and societal levels. The seminar was moderated by Ms. Noreeta Suleman (Lecturer cum Research Associate). Participants showed keen interest in the talk and asked many questions and shared their views. This seminar provided a platform for meaningful dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaboration aimed at enhancing mental health outcomes for vulnerable segments of the Pakistani population. Through shared insights and collective efforts, participants reaffirmed their commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society where mental health is prioritized for all.
2-Days Training Workshop on
Uplifting Mental Health of Women:Trauma, Violence and its Impact on Mental Health and Wellbeing of Women
April 29-30, 2024
A 2-day training workshop on “Trauma, Violence and its Impact on Mental Health and Wellbeing of Women” was organized by the National Institute of Psychology on 29th-30th, April 2024. The resource persons of the workshop were Prof. Dr. Fayyaz Hussain working in Center for Integrative Studies, Social Science, Michigan State University, USA and Ms. Maqsooda Solangi, Coordinator Women Empowerment, Aurat Foundation, Pakistan were the resource persons for this workshop.
It was the first workshop on the theme of women same workshop was carried out in series. The first cohort of the participants were rendering their services in public and private sector organizations of Pakistan namely, National Psychiatric Hospital and Rehabilitation Centre, Shifa Caring Centre, PIMS, Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital, Happy Life Psychological Services, Sidra Akhtar Foundation Drug and Psychological Rehabilitation Centre, Franklin Covey Education Islamabad, and Apples the Grooming School in the workshop.
There were three learning modules comprising six technical sessions planned in two days’ focusing on familiarizing the participants with possible trauma and violence and its impact on mental health challenges faced by women in Pakistan. Trainers specifically focused on how violence is a most common threat to women’s mental health. Moreover, during the training participants were encouraged to understand barriers and vulnerability of women and girls. Participants learned to review developmental history of the women’s struggles. Evaluation was done with reference to cultural stigmas and traditional practices regarding the mental health. There was emphasis with respect to participant’s role within their service domains as mental health psychosocial support providers, health care providers, or social workers to learn the strategies to handle the cases and focus on exploring adaptation of best practices making way to sound health of women. In the last session major key takeaways and corresponding action plan were generated in terms of meaningful social activities to uplift and enhance their mental health and improving their quality of life. Participants were engaged in rigorous practical exercises such as role plays, hand on exercises, expressive journaling sessions, volunteer opportunities, team building initiatives, and active listening sessions. Participants were very appreciative of the fact that workshop was based on activity-based learning through they learnt a great deal about plan of action in their respective field of work. Dr. Iram Naqvi, Assistant Professor and Ms. Sarah Imtiaz Research Associate cum Lecturer at NIP contributed developing insights into indigenous issues of women. It was a worth platform under the dynamic leadership of Prof. Dr. Rubina Hanif, Director of the National Institute of Psychology, was held in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM). It aimed to enhance awareness, knowledge, and skills related to uplifting the mental health and empowerment of women.
2-Days Training Workshop on
Uplifting Mental Health of Elderly
April 26-27, 2024
National Institute of Psychology has organized 2-day training workshop “Uplifting Mental Health of Elderly” in collaboration with IOM on 26-27, April 2024 as part of a project “Uplifting Mental Health of Vulnerable Segments of Population”. Dr. Kaneez Fatima Shad, Professor of Neuroscience and Translational Clinical Researcher Sydney, Australia was the resource person. Participants were professional health care providers including doctors and nurses, mental health professionals (counselors, therapists and social workers) rendering their services in public and private sector organizations of Pakistan. Prof. Dr. Rubina Hanif, Director NIP briefed the participants about core objectives and functioning of NIP and also shared major layout of the project and its broader utility in context of healthcare provision. There were six technical sessions spanned in two days activities focusing on orienting the participants about major mental health challenges faced by elderly individuals in our society, as well as cognitive decline and neurological deficit which are predominantly part of process of aging. In lieu to it the further deliberations emphasized identification of trauma, violence and abuse among elderly. In addition, participants were equipped with pragmatic learning of screening and diagnostic tools for elderly, intervention, strategies and therapeutic skills that can be used with elderly. The major key takeaways and corresponding action plan were generated in terms of meaningful social activities for elderly to uplift and enhance their mental health and improving their quality of life.
