Pabna, Nov 26 (V7N) – A daylong workshop titled “Strategies for Managing Mental Stress in Higher Education” was held for students of Pabna University of Science and Technology (PSTU) on Tuesday at the university’s medical center. The event was inaugurated by Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Nazrul Islam and Treasurer Professor Dr. Md. Shamim Ahsan.

Addressing the students, Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr. Nazrul Islam said that overcoming pressure is part of the journey to becoming a university student. Academic stress, uncertainty about the future, and occasional frustration are natural, he noted, adding that great individuals have succeeded by managing their pressure effectively. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness, he said, emphasizing the need for self-care, positive thinking, and mental resilience. He stated that such programs strengthen students’ morale and help them become mentally enriched.

Professor Dr. Akhtar Banu, Director of the Institute of Education and Research at Rajshahi University and the session’s resource person, highlighted that although many people in Bangladesh experience mental stress, they often hesitate to share their feelings due to social stigma. She said sharing emotions helps resolve many issues and stressed that recreation is essential for mental well-being. She urged parents to be aware of the need for mental health support and noted that such platforms at the university level are extremely beneficial for students.

Assistant Professor (Psychiatric) Dr. Masud Rana Sarkar of Pabna Mental Hospital stated that about 18 percent of people in the country face mental health challenges, while 17 percent of those cases involve very common and manageable issues. With basic treatment and counseling, many can recover quickly. Addressing students, he said forgetting things before exams is a normal brain mechanism and should not cause anxiety. Stress related to studies, results, jobs, and careers is natural, and adopting the right strategies can lead to a stress-free life.

The event was attended by Director of the Institutional Quality Assurance Cell Professor Dr. Md. Shamim Reza, Assistant Director Dr. Ashfaqul Rahman, Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam, and other officials and physicians from relevant departments and the medical center.

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