The three-day Kenya Universities Professional Counsellors Association (KUPCA) workshop at Chuka University gathered professional counsellors and mental health practitioners from 18 universities to address pressing mental health issues affecting university students. The May 22nd- 24th event featured dynamic discussions on topics such as cohabitation, the implications of instant gratification, and the impact of social media on mental health.
Among the key speakers, Dr. Monicah Oundo, COD Social Sciences, and Mr. George Manono Areri, Section Head Psychology, represented the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (FHSS). They delivered impactful presentations that resonated with participants.
Mr. George Manono Areri delivered an insightful session on “Self-Care for Mental Health Practitioners,” emphasizing the importance of caring for the carers. Mr. Manono elaborated the necessity of self-care practices for mental health professionals to prevent burnout and ensure sustainable, effective care.
Dr. Monicah Oundo facilitated a session on “Life in Campus: Cohabitation Implications and Interventions,” where she explored the challenges and solutions associated with student cohabitation. Her presentation provided practical strategies for managing the complexities of campus life.
The workshop also covered critical issues like drugs and the culture of instant gratification, and the role of emotional intelligence in improving personal and professional relationships. These sessions highlighted the need for comprehensive approaches to mental health in university settings.
The FHSS members’ contributions were highly commendable, aligning with the global Mental Health Month campaign and the upcoming Inaugural Research Conference in Humanities and Social Science sub-theme “Social work and Mental Health for Sustainable Development”. Their efforts at the KUPCA workshop expressed the importance of addressing mental health issues with expertise and empathy, benefiting both practitioners and students alike.
