Building Resilience through Empathetic Counselling: Workshops for World Mental Health Day and Malaysia’s Counselling Month
In observance of World Mental Health Day and Malaysia’s Counselling Month, the School of Psychology and Social Sciences at the International Medical University (IMU) conducted a one-day workshop titled “Building Resilience Through Empathetic Counselling” on October 23, 2024. The event was held from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM in the Multipurpose Area of the IMU Library, with the objective of raising awareness about mental health and providing participants with essential counselling skills and resources.
Workshop Overview
The workshop comprised a Basic Counselling Skills session in the morning, followed by a specialized talk on stress and burnout management in the afternoon. These components were designed to educate attendees and empower them in promoting mental wellness both personally and professionally.
Morning Session: Basic Counselling Skills Workshop
The morning session featured the Basic Counselling Skills Workshop, facilitated by registered counsellors Kenny Ng Suet Choon and Chin Hui Sian. Ng has been practising since 2017 and is registered with the Board of Counsellors in Malaysia. Chin, who has been a registered and licensed counsellor since 2018, is currently pursuing a PhD at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). This workshop aimed to equip participants with fundamental counselling techniques, stress management tools, and strategies for enhancing emotional well-being, while also focusing on the importance of mental health and reducing stigma associated with seeking professional help.
Afternoon Session: Building Resilience
In the afternoon, Sudha Kudva led a session titled “Building Resilience: Coping Strategies for Stress and Burnout in Academic Life,” which addressed specific challenges faced by academic professionals. Kudva provided practical coping mechanisms and self-care strategies to manage stress and prevent burnout, highlighting the significance of emotional resilience and a balanced work-life dynamic within academic environments.
Informational Booths
Additionally, informational booths were set up outside the library’s multipurpose room to showcase the services provided by the Psychology and Counselling Learning Centre. These booths featured experiential activities designed to enhance awareness of available psychological support services for students.
Conclusion
The workshop effectively aligned with the theme of “Building Resilience Through Empathetic Counselling,” offering participants valuable insights and skills applicable to both personal and professional situations. As global attention towards mental health issues intensifies, the School of Psychology and Social Sciences at IMU remains dedicated to promoting mental wellness and facilitating platforms for learning and development.
(Source: IMU News)
