
The Department of Biology at the College of Education for Pure Sciences (Ibn Al-Haitham) organized an educational scientific seminar entitled “Social Support and Its Role in Preventing Suicidal Thoughts Among University Students,” presented by Professor Dr. Sahla Hussein Qalandar, with the participation of a number of the department’s students. The seminar was held ضمن the department’s scientific and awareness activities aimed at promoting mental health and social awareness within the university environment.
The seminar highlighted the concept of social support and its significant role in reducing the psychological, academic, and social pressures faced by university students, which may lead to feelings of frustration or negative thoughts. The lecturer emphasized the importance of early recognition of such indicators and dealing with them responsibly and consciously.
The seminar also discussed the inverse relationship between social support and suicidal thoughts through presenting real-life examples and practical approaches that encourage students to seek psychological assistance and provide support to others. In addition, preventive strategies based on building positive relationships, enhancing communication, and avoiding social isolation were reviewed.
At the conclusion of the seminar, the lecturer stressed the importance of promoting a culture of psychological and social support among students in order to create a safer and more stable university environment capable of enhancing mental well-being and fostering positive adaptation within the academic community.
This activity aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being, through supporting mental health and preventing risky behaviors, as well as Goal 4: Quality Education by providing a safe and supportive educational environment that contributes to students’ academic and psychological development.

