Active Minds: First Middle Eastern Affiliate Chapter in AUK

Active Minds is the premier nonprofit organization supporting mental health awareness and education for students in the US, and AUK is the first affiliate chapter in the Middle East.

With over 450 university chapters, Active Minds is 'changing the conversation' about mental health and creating lasting change in the way mental health is talked about, cared for, and valued in the United States, and now in Kuwait.

The unique student-led organization reflects the voices of young people who are disproportionately affected by mental health issues and the way mental health is addressed on campuses and in society. Student initiatives are dedicated to building stronger families and communities through education, research, advocacy, and a focus on students and young adults aged 14–25. A core belief is that young people will be the drivers of change to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and create communities of support.

AUK's Active Minds kickoff carnival was a prime example of the special student-to-student approach that is unique to Active Minds. The members are passionate advocates and educators for mental health. Students encourage their peers and networks to learn about, talk about, and seek help for mental health issues just as they would for a physical issue, without shame or silence.

During the carnival, students connected with each other to define friendship, explore healthy self-help strategies, receive positive affirmation, learn simple techniques to support each other through the 4-step R U OK Q*? process, and had fun with a selfie booth and free hugs. Over 100 students expressed an interest in joining the Active Minds AUK organization during the upcoming academic year.

Students also participated in table events in multiple locations on campus to raise awareness for mental health issues and encourage mutual support.

The final event of the year was in conjunction with the First Year Experience showcase during which students were able to support each other by interacting with student civic awareness projects. Students were also invited to anonymously 'ask the expert' about mental health issues. AUK Psychology Professor Dr. Juliet Dinkha fielded questions, as did Psychologist Dr. Nisrine Aboulhosn. Also invited were Dr. Abeer Hamadah and Dr. Hamad Al-Khenaini from the Kuwait Center for Mental Health and psychiatrists who initiated the Mind_me_campaign (Mental illness does not define me) in Kuwait to support those who suffer with mental health issues.