Core focus areas: 

Awareness and early intervention 
Improving referral pathways and system navigation 
Enhancing communication between primary and secondary care 

Key Achievements 

 
Raising Awareness Through Outreach and Education 
 
During the fellowship, I actively used outreach strategies to improve mental health literacy among young people. I participated in events, webinars and leveraged social media platforms to engage a wider audience. 
Over 140 students participated in virtual events that opened meaningful discussions about emotional well-being. 
These sessions also offered practical tools and insights for aspiring healthcare professionals. 
The impact extended beyond education—normalising open conversations about mental health and promoting early help-seeking behaviour. 
 
Improving Referral Clarity and System Efficiency 
 
Through direct work with primary and secondary care services, I examined the root causes of delays and confusion in referral processes. 
Participated in step-up/step-down meetings and CAMHS forums to understand challenges in real time. 
Contributed to the development of new referral templates launched in September 2024, aimed at reducing ambiguity and improving the quality and clarity of referrals. 
Helped establish improved communication pathways between services, leading to more informed and actionable referrals. 
 
Digital Innovation and Collaborative Solutions 
 
To support accessible mental health services, I conducted a small survey of 29 young people to better understand how they interact with digital platforms for emotional support. 
This insight led to a collaboration with Imperial College to co-design a new digital interface. 
Although the full implementation occurred after the end of my fellowship, I contributed to the early planning and foundational work of this ongoing initiative. 

Outcome and legacy 

Greater awareness of mental health issues among students and young adults 
Improved communication and cooperation between primary and secondary care professionals 
More efficient and transparent referral processes 
Initiation of long-term digital innovation work to enhance service accessibility and youth support 

Book Zina Alhilali for Your Next Event 

If you're looking for an experienced speaker to connect with young people and staff on the topic of mental health, let's speak.  Available across the UK.  Telephone: Leicester: 0116 467 0053 London: 020 3793 8331  Email: info@dr-zee-wellbeing.com  Dr Zee Wellbeing | Supporting empowerment through experience, one talk at a time.