DHA launches first mental health nursing conference

The conference, kick-starts a week-long awareness drive to educate the public about mental health issues in the UAE.

Osama Diabat, practice development nurse at the psychiatric department in Rashid Hospital and organiser of the conference, said, "The aim of the conference is to promote awareness about mental health in the UAE both amongst the public as well as the medical fraternity and to educate and update nurses about the critical role they play in taking care of psychiatric patients."

While the conference highlights the importance of developing a therapeutic alliance between psychiatric patients and nurses, the activities that follow are aimed to raise public awareness about mental health and more importantly eliminate the stigma that surrounds patients with psychological disorders.

Dr Mohammad Fayek, head of psychiatric department at Rashid Hospital, said:

"The problem of stigma related to mental health is not restricted to the UAE, it is a problem facing all countries and the most important way to eliminate this is through public campaigns."

The first campaign will be held in Safa Park on Friday, 9th October from 10 am to 10 pm. The campaign- , "Hope, helps happiness" - will feature a walkathon, a charity market and employees from the Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality and other government organisations will support the initiative.

Fitness first will also take part in the campaign and will educate the public about the importance of fitness and mental health.

Prior to the launch of the campaign, an information stand will be put up in Mall of the Emirates on the 7th and 8th of October from 10 am to 10 pm to educate the public about mental health.

"Doctors will be present at the booth to answer queries raised by the public and also provide more information on mental health. It is imperative to reach out to the public to create awareness about mental health and we plan to keep up an ongoing campaign to make a difference," said Dr Fayek.

Khaled Ibrahim, nurse at the psychiatric department in Rashid Hospital, who has over 30 years experience in this field, said, "Mental health issues require more awareness because factors such as social pressure prevent people from coming forward with their problems and this leads to further deterioration in their condition. When it comes to psychiatric problems a little bit of support goes a long way."