Qatar University (QU) Alumni Psychology Chapter held a ceremony to honor the participants of the second season of the “You Are the Challenge" program. The initiative focuses on empowering community members to prioritize mental health and recognize the crucial mind-body connection. Prominent figures, guests, and program participants' families attended the ceremony.
Ms. Roaa El-Otify, Chairperson of the Psychology Chapter, said, “This ceremony recognizes participants of the 'You Are the Challenge' program in its second season. The program aims to highlight the importance of mental health and the strong connection between mind and body. The first season, launched two years ago with a simple concept, made a significant impact on 60 participants during a ten-day experience with mental health specialists, leading us to expand the program this season."
She added, “This season, we increased the number of participants and specialists. Twelve mental health professionals monitored participants throughout the ten-day journey, starting with an initial lifestyle assessment, continuous tracking, and a post-program evaluation to measure improvements in quality of life, social interaction, and dietary habits." Ms. El-Otify also noted that this is the first time the program concluded with an award ceremony, celebrating all participants, not just the top five, and emphasizing personal growth over competition.
Mr. Hussein El-Ayan, Program Director, remarked, “The efforts of the specialists with the participants are truly remarkable, as they have achieved results that have astonished us all. The outcomes reflect high levels of performance, indicating the program's effectiveness and the participants' deep engagement."
Mr. Mohammed Al-Hayder, a respected psychologist and guest of honor, discussed the psychological challenges he personally faced and the importance of mental health awareness within the community. “In the past, I've put enormous pressure on myself to perform, but I've learned it's crucial to stay true to oneself. Part of my journey, which I share here, involves dealing with anxiety and recognizing the importance of self-care," he explained. Mr. Al-Hayder continued, “Qatar University was instrumental in my early speaking engagements and has been a part of my path in understanding mental health not just as a science but as a journey of personal discovery and resilience."
Mr. Al-Hayder's insights were a testament to the program's comprehensive approach, which not only addresses mental health but also promotes physical well-being, social interaction, and spiritual growth. The presence of professionals like Mr. Al-Hayder and the participants' diverse backgrounds highlight the program's holistic nature, making it a model for personal development in the region.
Ms. Dana Al-Majali, an accountant in the energy sector, described how the program helped her confront her fears and discover new skills. “Through my participation, I realized that the biggest challenge was overcoming my fears and exploring new skills. When I decided to take on the experience of diving, I was extremely scared, but I chose to face this challenge, and today I am proud of my achievement in obtaining an international diving license," she shared. For Ms. Al-Majali, the program was not just about the competition but a chance to improve herself and reassess her family relationships, which she described as a turning point in her life.
Similarly, Eng. Anas Ibrahim Maabreh, Qatar Power System Operator at Kahramaa, reflected on how the program had a profound impact on his lifestyle. He expressed that his experience in “Be the Challenge" was one of the most distinctive in his life. “It helped me enhance my physical health. It also encouraged me to abandon negative habits," he noted. The program's influence extended beyond his health habits, motivating him to read regularly and strengthening his spiritual connection through consistent daily Quran recitation and prayers.