Northwestern University in Qatar will mark World Mental Health Day on October 9, 2024, with a community conversation with Dr. Suhaila Ghuloum, associate professor of clinical psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar and senior consultant psychiatrist at Hamad Medical Corporation. The event will give students, faculty, and staff a chance to learn from one of Qatar’s foremost mental health advocates about the importance of mental well-being, access to care, and issues related to mental health stigma.
Ghuloum, a key figure in the development of mental health services in Qatar, will discuss the current state of mental health care in the region, emphasize the importance of reducing stigma, and explore strategies for enhancing access to care. Drawing from her extensive experience and role in drafting Qatar’s first mental health law, she will share insights into mental well-being and its significance for academic and professional success.
A respected leader in her field, Ghuloum has made significant contributions to the country’s mental health landscape through her work with Hamad Medical Corporation, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, and collaborations with the World Health Organization (WHO). She has played a key role in developing Qatar’s National Mental Health Strategy and continues to be a champion for improving mental health awareness and services.
“At Northwestern Qatar, we are committed to cultivating a strong sense of community, where the well-being of every individual is valued and supported. As we mark World Mental Health Day, we are reminded of the critical role that mental health plays in nurturing a thriving community. By creating spaces for open dialogue and access to care, we empower our students, faculty, and staff to prioritize their mental well-being and contribute to a healthier, more inclusive environment,” said Marwan M. Kraidy, dean and CEO of Northwestern Qatar.
“At Northwestern Qatar, we are committed to cultivating a strong sense of community, where the well-being of every individual is valued and supported. As we mark World Mental Health Day, we are reminded of the critical role that mental health plays in nurturing a thriving community.”
This event, hosted by the Student Experience’s Counseling and Wellness office in collaboration with the Health, Safety, Security & Environment (HSSE) department and the Wellness Committee, is one of several community initiatives aimed at raising mental health awareness and support.
Alongside the talk, the Counseling and Wellness team will be offering resources and evidence-based strategies for managing emotional responses, allowing individuals to personalize their approach to mental well-being and reflect on and identify additional techniques they can incorporate to enhance their overall mental health. This aims to empower the community with skills that can be applied both in their academic pursuits and personal lives, promoting overall well-being and success.
Various health and well-being resources are available to the Northwestern Qatar community, designed to support the holistic well-being of both staff and students. Faculty and staff can access resources through the Human Resources department. Students have access to the Counseling and Wellness office for counseling and wellness needs, which also provides tailored programs, including individual counseling, group therapy, and wellness workshops, in an inclusive environment that ensures all students feel supported.
The event will be held on Wednesday, October 9, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. in the university’s auditorium.
