Umm Al-Qura University today opened the Mental Health Forum 2026, held under the theme “Every Voice Has an Impact” at the King Saud Hall on the university campus in Al-Abidiyah, with the participation of several colleges, university departments and health and community bodies.

The two-day forum aims to raise awareness of the importance of mental health, embed a culture of caring for it and highlight the role of academic, health and community institutions in creating supportive environments. It also seeks to strengthen partnerships and the exchange of expertise that help improve quality of life.

The programme includes an accompanying exhibition, workshops, awareness corners and research posters, as well as four enrichment sessions led by faculty members, experts and specialists. The sessions cover psychological and social support, the role of educational institutions in promoting students' psychological balance, and spreading awareness and prevention.

The forum also stressed the need to support students and attend to their psychological and social needs through initiatives and awareness programmes that encourage them to talk about their experiences and seek help when needed, creating a supportive university environment and promoting wellbeing in higher education.