Baramulla, Dec 8 — The Department of Psychology at Government Degree College (GDC) Baramulla organized a one-day workshop on Psychological First Aid to equip participants with essential skills to address mental health challenges in crisis situations.
The workshop, led by Dr. Kaiser Ahmad Dar, Head of the Department of Psychology, began with a welcoming address by Prof. Mohammad Shafi Lone, Principal of GDC Baramulla. Prof. Lone underscored the importance of psychological first aid (PFA) training in addressing mental health concerns, particularly in times of crisis. He commended the Department of Psychology for organizing such an impactful initiative aimed at enhancing mental health literacy within the community.
Dr. Abdul Majeed Bhat, Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology, introduced the guest expert, Dr. Aijaz Ahmad Bhat, a distinguished Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services (MHPSS) expert and RCI-licensed Consultant Clinical Psychologist. Dr. Bhat’s expertise in clinical psychology and mental health provided a strong foundation for the day’s session, which focused on the practical application of psychological first aid.
Dr. Bhat’s presentation centred on the three core principles of PFA: Look, Listen, and Link. Through practical demonstrations and case studies, he helped participants understand the importance of these principles in offering immediate support to those in psychological distress. One of the highlights of the workshop was a live enactment of a PFA scenario, with student volunteers bringing theoretical concepts to life in a real-world context.
In addition to the core training session, Dr. Bhat engaged participants with a dynamic Q&A segment, addressing a range of questions related to mental health care and crisis response strategies. His interactive approach ensured that attendees gained a deeper understanding of the vital role of psychological first aid in community-based mental health support.
The workshop was attended by several faculty members, including Prof. Sameena Ismail (Department of Biotechnology), Dr. Syed Mutahar Aaqib (Coordinator, IQAC), and Prof. Rizwan Fareed Khan (Department of Management Studies), reflecting the college’s interdisciplinary approach to mental health education.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Aliya Akhter, who expressed gratitude to the Department of Psychology, the guest expert, and the participants for their contributions to the workshop’s success. Postgraduate students Afreen and Kulsum hosted the event with professionalism, ensuring the smooth flow of proceedings.
This workshop reflects GDC Baramulla’s ongoing commitment to promoting mental health awareness and providing students with practical skills to support mental well-being. It also highlights the dedication of experts like Dr. Aijaz Ahmad Bhat in fostering a deeper understanding of psychological care in crisis situations, equipping future professionals with the tools needed to respond to mental health needs in the community.
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