A specialised workshop was recently held to equip staff with the skills needed to respond effectively and professionally to mental health emergencies, reinforcing the important message that mental health is a shared responsibility.
‘Psychological First Aid’, organised by Arabian Gulf University (AGU), focused on providing quick, safe and supportive initial care for students, helping to prevent the escalation of psychological challenges within the university environment.
The session was delivered by head of the Student Counselling Unit at the Deanship of Student Affairs Masouma Al Aali and counsellor Mohamed Hajji, as part of broader strategic efforts to promote mental well-being and build a comprehensive support system across campus.
Designed for staff who regularly interact with students, the four-hour workshop saw active participation from dormitory supervisors and deanship staff, reflecting the growing institutional awareness of the importance of enhancing the psychological readiness of frontline workers.
The training covered four key areas, including clarifying professional roles in initial psychological interventions, reviewing evidence-based psychological support methods, introducing practical tools used in this field, and proper referral mechanisms to specialists to ensure continuity of care.
For her part, AGU student affairs dean Dr Aseel Al Saleh highlighted the long-term value of such initiatives, noting that investing in basic mental health first aid training goes beyond handling emergencies. “It helps foster a more aware and cohesive university community grounded in active listening, mutual respect and ongoing support,” she said.
By enhancing early intervention skills and overall preparedness, the workshop enabled participants to address mental health concerns with greater confidence, awareness and professionalism.
It concluded with a key message that promoting mental health is a shared responsibility – one that begins with awareness and extends into daily practice. This underscores the importance of collective efforts in creating a balanced educational environment that supports both students’ academic success and their psychological and personal well-being.
The workshop forms part of an ongoing series of programmes aimed at promoting mental health on campus, grounded in the belief that a safe and supportive learning environment is essential for achieving academic excellence and fostering student well-being.
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