Commemoration of the World Mental Health Day 2024 Career Guidance Unit (CGU) Faculty of Indigenous Medicine, University of Colombo
World Mental Health Day, celebrated annually on 10th October, highlights the importance of mental health awareness and provides an opportunity for individuals and communities to engage in discussions that promote mental well-being globally.
In celebration of World Mental Health Day 2024 under the theme of “IT IS TIME TO PRIORITIZE MENTAL HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE” , The Career Guidance Unit (CGU), Faculty of Indigenous Medicine, University of Colombo in collaboration with the Department of Ayurveda Medicine and Indigenous Medicine and the Department of Unani Clinical Medicine proudly organized the “Tree of Positive Thoughts – Keep Sustain Mental Health in Workplace” activity where the community can share uplifting messages, affirmations and words of encouragements to inspire others to nurture positive thinking and promote wellbeing.
This interactive installation allowed participants to write down positive, affirming, and motivational thoughts, which were then displayed on a specially decorated tree within the premises of the Faculty. The activity provided a visual and symbolic representation of collective positivity and resilience, emphasizing the role of positive thinking in fostering mental well-being.
The primary aim was to encourage students, faculty, and community to engage in a simple, uplifting exercise that promotes positive thinking. By sharing and reading affirming messages, participants were reminded of the power of positive thinking in building a supportive environment and enhancing mental health. The activity aligned with the goals of World Mental Health Day 2024 to reduce stigma, spread awareness, and create spaces for mental health advocacy.
The event was held on 10th October 2024 at the Faculty of Indigenous Medicine, University of Colombo from 8.00 am to 12.00 noon.
Students from the 2020/2021Academic Year of BAMS and BUMS took an active role in organizing the event, from decorating the tree to encouraging peers and faculty members to contribute their thoughts. The students’ engagement and enthusiasm reflected their dedication to mental health advocacy, making the event both meaningful and memorable for all attendees.
Dr. M.A.A. Sirajudeen – Senior Lecturer Grade II, Dr. (Mrs.) R.M.D.A. Amarasiri – Lecturer (Probationary), Dr. (Mrs.) M.J.H.P. Sabra – Lecturer (Probationary), Dr. (Mrs.) S.K.A.C.S. Senanayake – Lecturer (Probationary) have all demonstrated exceptional dedication and teamwork in ensuring the successful execution of the event.
The Positive Thoughts Hanging Tree received an overwhelmingly positive response, with participants appreciating the initiative’s simplicity and the positive energy it generated. Many expressed feeling more connected, uplifted, and mindful of the importance of mental well-being. Feedback indicated that the event was both refreshing and impactful, with a suggestion to make it an annual tradition to continue fostering a supportive environment for mental health awareness.
The World Mental Health Day celebration at the Faculty of Indigenous Medicine was a successful and inspiring event. “Tree of Positive Thoughts – Keep Sustain Mental Health in Workplace”, initiated by the CGU, not only raised awareness but also created an environment of shared optimism and support. The celebration demonstrated how simple actions can significantly contribute to mental health awareness and community building, highlighting the importance of such events within educational institutions.
Patronage : Professor Pathirage Kamal Perera, Dean, FIM, UoC
Theme and Concept : Dr. (Mrs.) R.H.S.K. De Silva, Coordinator – CGU, FIM, UoC
Coordinator : Dr. (Mrs.) S. Weerasekara
Event Coordinators : Dr. (Mrs.) R.M.D.A. Amarasiri , Dr. (Mrs.) S.K.A.C.S. Senanayake
