Students from the MSc Psychology (Clinical) 2024 cohort (MPSY2024) conducted a community awareness session on menopause and mental wellbeing on 26 October 2024, as part of their assessment for PSY515 – Clinical and Health Psychology.

The session was conducted under the guidance of Mariyam Ifshan Ahmed, Subject Lecturer, and facilitated by Fathimath Saifa and Irasha Mohamed. The activity provided students with an opportunity to apply their academic learning in a practical setting while contributing to public awareness of women’s health and wellbeing.

The session focused on increasing understanding of menopause and its potential physical and psychological effects. Participants were introduced to information on the changes associated with menopause and strategies that can support healthy management and overall wellbeing during this stage of life.

By addressing both physical and psychological aspects of menopause, the session encouraged greater awareness of women’s mental health needs and the importance of appropriate support. Community education on these issues can also contribute to reducing misconceptions and encouraging individuals to seek relevant health and professional support when needed.

For the students, the activity provided valuable experiential learning. Planning and facilitating a health education session enabled them to practise communicating psychological and health-related information in an accessible manner and strengthen their skills in applying clinical and health psychology concepts beyond the classroom.

The initiative reflects FHS’s commitment to connecting academic learning with community engagement and promoting greater awareness of issues relevant to health and wellbeing.

The activity contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through its focus on physical and mental wellbeing, SDG 5 (Gender Equality) through greater awareness of women’s health and wellbeing, and SDG 4 (Quality Education) by providing students with practical opportunities to apply their knowledge and develop professional health education skills.