Within the scope of the stigma program carried out as part of the SBH306 Mental Health and Psychiatric
Nursing course at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Nursing Department of Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit
University (BEUN), volunteer activities aimed at reducing stigma toward mental illnesses were
implemented by students on March 26, 2026.
The main objective of the program was to combat societal prejudices against schizophrenia, bipolar
disorder, and depression, and to increase awareness about these conditions. In this context, students
conducted educational, informational, and awareness-raising activities at BEUN Farabi Campus, İbni Sina
Campus, and BEUN Hospital.
The activities, carried out by six different student groups, were organized under the themes: “Remove the
labels, see the real me,” “Not labels, but empathy,” “Depression is silent, prejudice is loud—hear the
silence,” “You are not alone, we are stronger together,” “Grow empathy, not prejudice,” and “Recognize
bipolar disorder, break the stigma.”
During the stand-based activities organized within the program, informative posters and brochures were
used to provide accurate information about mental illnesses to students, university administrative and
academic staff, patients, patients’ relatives, and healthcare professionals. To encourage active
participation, educational games were implemented to support the learning process.
Another component of the program included digital awareness activities. Through posts shared on the
social media account titled “Guide to Bipolar Disorder,” it was aimed to reach wider audiences and
provide accurate information about mental illnesses.
Through these volunteer activities, it was aimed to enhance students’ professional awareness, improve
their empathy skills, and contribute to reducing stigma toward mental illnesses in society.