Conference on Promoting Mental Health in the Workplace with the participation of 25 experts
Al-Jouf University is preparing to launch a prominent scientific event on Wednesday and Thursday, April 15th and 16th, hosting a leading conference at the Ministry of Education auditorium. The conference will highlight the importance of mental health in the workplace. Twenty-five expert speakers will participate, aiming to develop a comprehensive roadmap for professional recovery, improve the quality of work life, and enhance institutional awareness across various sectors. This scientific event is held under the auspices of the Council of University Affairs and with the generous patronage of the Minister of Education, reflecting strong support for national efforts to build a more stable and productive institutional system.
The historical development of interest in the quality of professional life
The focus on employee mental health is not a recent phenomenon, but rather the culmination of a global and local historical development recognizing that human beings are the cornerstone of any development. Historically, work environments primarily focused on physical productivity, neglecting the psychological aspect. However, with advancements in management science and occupational psychology, global and local organizations have come to realize that burnout and psychological stress cost economies billions of dollars annually. Locally, this trend aligns closely with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, specifically the Quality of Life Program, which aims to improve the lifestyle of individuals and families and build a society where its members enjoy a healthy lifestyle and a positive, attractive, and stimulating environment conducive to creativity.
Strategic dimensions and the impact of mental health in work environments
This conference holds significant importance that extends beyond the local level to encompass regional and international dimensions. Locally, the event contributes to creating safe and sustainable work environments that reduce employee turnover and increase employee loyalty, positively impacting the national economy. Regionally, the Kingdom stands out as a model to be emulated in adopting best administrative and health practices that prioritize human well-being. Internationally, the exchange of global experiences during the conference enhances the standing of Saudi institutions in global human resources indices. The organizers revealed that the conference aims to raise the efficiency of professional performance, showcase the most prominent modern strategies, exchange global experiences, and formulate a vision that supports impactful initiatives.
Institutional integration and effective national partnerships
The event organizers explained that the platform will bring together a select group of national leaders and specialists in mental health, education, and social development, in addition to representatives from the health and security sectors. The preparatory committees confirmed the participation of prominent national entities, including the National Center for Mental Health Promotion, the Human Rights Commission, and the Council of Cooperative Health Insurance, reflecting the desired "institutional integration." The opening ceremony will also feature a visual presentation entitled "Building People... A Prosperous Nation," followed by the launch of several key initiatives, the signing of cooperation agreements, and the recognition of partners.
Specialized workshops to address the challenges of the modern era
The agenda indicated that the dialogue sessions would highlight the leadership role in building a psychologically safe work environment and the impact of organizational culture on employee well-being. Discussions would also address the role of human resources in providing psychological support, along with a detailed analysis of the social and psychological transformations resulting from rapid digital and technological advancements. The scientific committee added that the events would include seven specialized workshops held over three days (Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday) to enhance the practical application of the conference.
Wednesday's workshops will focus on initial psychological interventions in the educational environment, innovative techniques for developing care models, and the hierarchical model of psychopathology. Thursday's workshops will discuss the implications of adolescents' use of artificial intelligence, psychological disorders in the digital age, and the integration of psychological counseling and intellectual awareness within educational institutions. The agenda concludes with a workshop on Saturday dedicated to understanding early behaviors and monitoring "intellectual risks" within educational and governmental bodies to ensure the creation of safe and sustainable work environments.
