In a groundbreaking move to enhance mental health services, Emirates Health Services (EHS) has launched 15 specialized mental health clinics as part of its “Together for Mental Well-being” initiative. The announcement was made during a ceremony attended by Dr. Yousif Mohammed Al-Serkal, the Director-General of EHS, and marks a significant expansion of mental health care across the UAE.
The clinics will be located within primary healthcare centres across six emirates, including Dubai and Fujairah, bringing mental health services closer to the community and offering a more accessible option for those in need of support. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s long-term goals under the National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031, aimed at improving the quality of life and overall well-being for its citizens.
Enhancing Access to Specialized Mental Health Services
This new initiative reflects EHS’s dedication to providing specialized and holistic care in the mental health sector. As part of the “Together for Mental Well-being” initiative, EHS aims to bridge the gap in mental health services by creating a robust network of mental health professionals and support systems, ensuring comprehensive care for people across all age groups.
Dr. Noor Al Mheiri, Director of the Mental Health Department at EHS, highlighted that mental health services are a strategic priority for the organization. The goal is to integrate mental health services more fully into the primary healthcare environment. By doing so, the initiative ensures that community members can access mental health support early, thereby promoting better outcomes and reducing the stigma often associated with seeking help.
Building a Comprehensive Healthcare Model
Dr. Kareema Alraesi, Director of the Primary Healthcare Department at EHS, emphasized the importance of this initiative in transforming the healthcare model to one that integrates mental and physical health. She explained that by incorporating mental health services into primary healthcare centers, EHS is promoting an approach that prioritizes early intervention and prevention of mental health disorders. This shift is also reflected in the training of healthcare professionals to better detect mental health issues and provide effective therapeutic interventions.
In this context, the training provided to healthcare professionals will equip them with the necessary skills to identify early signs of mental health disorders, including conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress-related issues. Specially designed workshops and training sessions will ensure that healthcare workers are prepared to handle such cases and refer patients to specialized care when needed.
Standardizing Treatment Protocols and Enhancing Efficiency
A key part of the initiative’s success lies in its focus on standardizing treatment protocols in line with the latest global practices. By ensuring that all clinics operate under unified and evidence-based guidelines, the initiative aims to provide high-quality mental health services across the board. This standardization will help streamline treatment and ensure that patients receive consistent care, no matter which clinic they visit.
Moreover, the initiative includes the development of an electronic mental health system integrated with the “Wareed” health information system, which will enhance the management of mental health cases. This integration will allow for better case management, real-time data collection, and informed decision-making based on evidence. The digital platform will also support healthcare providers in making accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans for patients.
A Focus on Education and Awareness
The launch event also featured a range of educational activities, including lectures and specialized workshops. These sessions covered various critical topics related to mental health, such as:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques in primary healthcare
- Treatment approaches for anxiety and depression in children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly
- Risk assessment for mental health issues and early intervention strategies
- Managing mental health emergencies and recognizing critical symptoms that require immediate attention
The workshops and lectures were designed to enhance the capacity of healthcare professionals to address a wide range of mental health challenges, from everyday stress to more severe psychological conditions. By promoting these educational efforts, the initiative hopes to build a more mentally resilient society and foster a better understanding of mental health within the community.
Looking Ahead
The launch of these 15 mental health clinics is just the beginning of a broader movement to address mental health care in the UAE. By integrating mental health services within the primary healthcare system, EHS is laying the foundation for holistic and accessible care, which is expected to benefit a wide spectrum of the population.
This initiative not only demonstrates a commitment to improving access to care but also reflects the UAE’s growing focus on mental health as a central component of overall well-being. As the world becomes increasingly aware of the importance of mental health, EHS’s bold steps forward provide a model for other nations seeking to address mental health issues in a comprehensive and inclusive way.
By continuing to invest in infrastructure, training, and digital solutions, the UAE is positioning itself as a leader in mental health innovation and community well-being.
