A forum dedicated to World Mental Health Day was held on October 27 at Mazoon College in Muscat, bringing together experts in psychology and psychiatry from across Oman. The event, organized under the theme “Your Voice, Your World,” was conducted under the patronage of prominent psychologist and mental health advocate HH Sayyidah Basma al Said.
Dr. Hamood al Wardi, Dean of Mazoon College, opened the forum by emphasizing the significance of mental health as a fundamental component of overall well-being and societal development. He noted that mental health is not a luxury but a critical foundation for a balanced and productive society. Highlighting the international theme for this year’s World Mental Health Day—“Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change”—Dr. al Wardi stressed the importance of listening to individuals’ experiences and addressing psychological challenges without bias. According to him, this approach is essential for developing effective therapeutic interventions that can bring about sustainable change.
Dr. al Wardi also underscored the role of academic institutions in advancing mental health awareness and addressing social issues. He expressed hope that the forum would serve as a platform for constructive dialogue and inspire initiatives that make a lasting difference. “Let us make listening a culture, awareness a responsibility, and knowledge an impact that makes a real difference in the lives of individuals and society,” he said.
The forum featured presentations from several leading mental health professionals, including Prof. Dr. Samir bin Hamad al Adawi from Sultan Qaboos University’s College of Medicine and Health Sciences; psychiatrist Dr. Aziz bin Nasser al Numani of Al Qamma Medical Care Complex; Dr. Maha Abdul Majeed al Aani, psychologist at Sultan Qaboos University’s Student Counselling Centre; and Dr. Mahfouza bint Rashid al Mushaqri, Director of the Student Counselling Centre at University of Nizwa.
Alongside the talks, an exhibition showcased the college students’ creative interpretations of the forum’s theme. Ibtisam al Numani, a third-year psychology student and Humanities Club member, explained that the club integrated their perspectives into the event’s theme to raise awareness. She expressed gratitude for the participation of experienced professionals whose involvement inspired the students. “The support means a lot and motivates us to keep doing this work, especially in mental health for students,” she said.
The Humanities Club, composed primarily of criminal justice and psychology majors, aims to explore the intersections of law and mental health. Al Numani noted that the group seeks to examine how these disciplines can collaboratively address social challenges and improve outcomes for individuals and communities.
World Mental Health Day was established by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992 and is observed annually on October 10 to promote mental health education, advocacy, and awareness globally. The Mazoon College forum reflected Oman’s ongoing commitment to fostering dialogue and action around mental health issues.