AUK Observes Mental Health Awareness Day

Duhok, Kurdistan Region – On October 6, 2025, Counseling Services at the American University of Kurdistan organized Mental Health Awareness Day under the theme of It’s OK Not to Be OK. The initiative aimed to foster open dialogue about mental health, encourage self-reflection, and promote a culture of empathy and support among AUK community members.

Throughout the day, two presentation tables were set up at the Student Lounge and Cafeteria, where students received green ribbons recognized around the world as a symbol of support and awareness for mental health. Stickers and educational materials on topics such as anxiety, depression, and social phobia were also distributed. The Art Therapy Club invited students to express themselves through creative activities like stone painting, canvas drawing, and self-reflective notes to be hung on a “tree of thoughts.”

This year’s expanded program featured the first student-led workshop, titled Break the Stigma, Knock the Door, Own Your Keys, marking an important milestone in AUK’s ongoing commitment to fostering a healthy and inclusive campus environment. Four students delivered presentations related to self-awareness and self-care, sharing personal insights and practical ways for maintaining mental well-being. The workshop aimed to validate students’ mental health challenges and normalize help-seeking behaviors by strengthening connections between the students, peers and AUK Counseling Services.

Reflecting on the day’s success, Ms. Yelena Sardaryan, Director of the Office of Student Affairs, stated:

“Mental health advocacy is a shared responsibility that belongs to our entire campus. By breaking the stigma, educating our community, and standing together in ongoing advocacy, we create a culture that normalizes the concept of mental health and fosters understanding.”

With 647 attendees—representing a 70% increase from last year—the day’s events demonstrated the campus community’s collective commitment to mental well-being.