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As part of its commitment to promoting mental health awareness as one of the fundamental pillars of human well-being and quality of life, and under the patronage of Prof. Dr. Ahmed Abdel Aziz, Director and Chairman of the Board of Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI), the Institute organized an awareness lecture entitled "How Do You Talk to Yourself?" The lecture highlighted the impact of self-talk on shaping thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, as well as its role in developing a more balanced personality capable of coping with life's challenges.

The lecture was delivered by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shaimaa Shaker, Assistant Professor in the Department of Parasitology at TBRI, psychiatrist, and mental health trainer. She explained that self-talk refers to the way individuals interpret themselves and the situations they experience. She emphasized that the words people repeatedly tell themselves do not always reflect reality; rather, they may stem from past experiences, deeply rooted beliefs, or inaccurate interpretations of events.

Using an interactive approach, the lecture explored how various psychological schools have addressed the concept of self-talk, beginning with psychoanalysis, followed by Carl Rogers' person-centered approach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). It highlighted the common ground among these approaches: the way individuals speak to themselves has a direct influence on their emotions, behaviors, and decision-making.

The session also included a series of practical exercises and interactive activities that helped participants distinguish between facts and personal interpretations, reconsider automatic negative thoughts, identify the sources of their self-image, and learn how to rebuild it in a more realistic and self-compassionate manner. Furthermore, the lecture addressed the different sources of thoughts and emphasized the importance of distinguishing between thoughts that inspire goodness, hope, and constructive action, and those that lead to despair, fear, and negative assumptions. It stressed that every individual has the ability to choose which thoughts to embrace in shaping their self-perception and life path, thereby promoting mental well-being and emotional balance.

Prof. Dr. Ahmed Abdel Aziz stated that organizing such events reflects the Institute's holistic approach to human well-being, based on its belief that mental health is an essential component of a healthy work environment and a more aware, productive, and resilient society. He added that promoting sound psychological awareness contributes to improving quality of life and advancing overall health, in line with the Institute's mission to serve the community alongside its scientific, research, and medical roles.

The lecture concluded by emphasizing that self-talk is far more than a series of passing thoughts; it is a powerful force that shapes how individuals perceive themselves and the world around them. Developing awareness of one's thoughts, evaluating them critically, and choosing those that foster growth and hope represent the true starting point for positive change and a more balanced life. This lecture forms part of TBRI's ongoing commitment to organizing scientific and educational activities that promote knowledge and support community health.