Daily Times

ISLAMABAD: A seminar titled: ‘Media, violence and psychology’ was held at the International Islamic University (IIU) Islamabad on Wednesday to mark the World Mental Health Day.

Participants said that uncertainty, terrorism and prevalence of exploitation in the society were the leading factors of psychological issues.

They said that social media, electronic media and universities could play a meaningful role in addressing the psychic problems through a well-devised strategy.

The seminar was a joint effort of the university’s Department of Psychology and Iqbal Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD). Ambassadors of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, the IIUI president, heads of psychology departments of both campuses, media persons, psychology experts of USA, Egypt, Vice President IIUI, Pakistani psychologists and faculty members of the university were also present.

Saudi Ambassador Nawaf Ahmad Al Malki said that centers to address the psychological issues of the people were necessary. “KSA has established such canters in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam. IIUI experts will be welcomed to these centers to exchange the experiences and establish bilateral ventures. Children must be given special attention. They should not be ignored once they are exposed to psychic tendencies,” he said.

UAE Envoy Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Al Za’abi said that the social media was the most appropriate tool to raise awareness among the public about psychological disorders. “The same technology should also be used to educate people about its demerits. The youth should be prepared to take benefit from technological advancements,” he said.

IIUI President Dr Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh said that the university was committed to improving the emotional wellbeing among its students and staff as well as the local community. “The university every year marks the day with meaningful events to addresses prevalent issues and challenges such as terrorism, violence and lack of patience. The university’s teachers of psychology department inculcate Islamic values into young brains and train them to disseminate peace in the society which can ultimate diminish the psychological issues,” he said.

Dr Tahir Khalily, a renowned clinical psychologist and IIUI Academics director, briefed the participants about role of department of psychology in HEC projects, joint ventures, MoUs and research. He said that the department of psychology of IIUI would keep delivering to the society through research and practice.

Published in Daily Times, October 11^th 2017.