An art event was organised by the Arabian Gulf University’s (AGU) deanship of student affairs to mark World Mental Health Day.
‘Brushing Away Stress’ combined art and psychological support in an interactive experience aimed at enabling students, faculty and administrative staff to express their feelings through drawing, creating a positive atmosphere.
“Promoting mental health is no longer limited to traditional therapy,” said student affairs dean Dr Aseel Al Saleh.
“Art, and specifically drawing, has become a cornerstone of the journey toward psychological recovery and internal balance, especially with increasing daily pressures and mental challenges.
“In this context, drawing emerges as an effective tool for relieving stress and improving mood.”
Deanship of student affairs student counsellor Masooma Al A’ali pointed out that psychological research indicates the importance of engaging in artistic activities such as drawing and colouring as an effective way to alleviate psychological stress.
The event, which featured artist and calligrapher Ali Al Bazzaz, provided a space for participants to practise drawing without needing prior experience or artistic skills. Instead, it focused on providing a safe practice for self-expression and internal communication through personal feeling and experience.