KUCHING – The Swinburne Postgraduate Research Society (PGRS) recently hosted a mental health panel discussion in collaboration with the Mental Health Association of Sarawak (MHAS).
Held at Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus on 24 March 2023, the primary aim of the event was to eliminate negative attitudes towards mental health, offer effective stress management techniques and raise awareness of substance abuse through open and impactful discussions. It also aimed to create a more supportive and understanding community that values mental health and wellbeing.
The panel discussion was attended by more than 50 participants, comprising mental health professionals, university staff as well as former and current students – all of whom brought their wealth of knowledge, experience and expertise to the table.
The panellists discussed the importance of creating a more supportive environment for those who are struggling with mental health issues and encouraged open and respectful dialogue on the subject.
One of the panellists, Maclean anak Patrick Sibat, spoke about his personal experience with depression and how he advocates and volunteers at MHAS as a speaker or facilitator for their programs.
Participants listen as Al-Shante shares.
Hazel Saw Huey Szee, a clinical psychologist, touched on the importance of community resilience and shared her experiences in providing therapy, conducting psychological assessments and holding workshops for individuals and families of diverse backgrounds and ages.
Gill Raja, a social policy and social work lecturer, shared her insights on postgraduate study and her experience in managing a counselling centre for the Sarawak Social Welfare Council.
“As part of the Swinburne community, it’s important that we prioritise our mental health and wellbeing. This event served as a reminder that mental health issues can affect anyone, including postgraduate students, undergraduates and staff. What is most important to remember is that help is available,” said Andrew Tang, Vice President of PGRS.
“We hope that through this event, we were able to provide strategies for stress management, break down stigmas surrounding mental health and encourage honest conversations about these issues. In both our academic and mental health journeys, we must continue to uplift and support each other,” he added.
The event also featured the sharing of information on mental health issues and helplines. Alshante Al-shahri Anuar, a committee member of MHAS and Mindbrew, emphasised the importance of honest conversations on mental health and shared how they facilitate Mindbrew sessions conducted monthly.
It was hoped that through events like this, students and staff would feel encouraged to reach out and find solutions, knowing that there are people willing to listen and help.
For more information on Swinburne Sarawak, visit its website (www.swinburne.edu.my), Facebook page (@swinburnesarawak), Instagram (@swinburnesarawak), Twitter page (@Swinburne_Swk) or YouTube channel (Swinburne Sarawak).