Fatima Bint Mubarak Forum To Elevate Mental Health In Motherhood And Childhood

Under the esteemed patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood has unveiled the initial programme for the upcoming Fatima bint Mubarak Forum for Motherhood and Childhood on Mental Health. Scheduled for October 10th in Abu Dhabi, this pivotal event is dedicated to addressing mental health concerns pertaining to motherhood and childhood within the United Arab Emirates. The forum is a testament to Sheikha Fatima's commitment to ensuring the well-being and education of children, aiming to foster awareness, support, and actionable solutions through discussions among key stakeholders and mental health professionals.

The Minister of Health and Prevention, Abdul Rahman Al Owais, has expressed his support for the forum, emphasizing the enhancement of life quality for mothers, children, and families as a crucial national objective. Al Reem bint Abdullah Al Falasi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, stated that the forum would delve into strategies for delivering optimal mental healthcare. This initiative underscores the critical role of mental health in cultivating a robust society.

Shaista Asif, CEO of PureHealth, praised the forum's focus on mental health issues, highlighting its importance in building a resilient and content society. The forum aims to explore the nexus between mental health and overall well-being, with a particular focus on fostering positive self-image, emotional regulation, and improved learning capabilities among children and adolescents. It will also examine the contributions of families, schools, and communities in supporting psychological and social development.

In preparation for the forum, a series of workshops and discussions on various mental health topics will be conducted. These sessions are part of a broader programme that includes awareness campaigns, workshops, and training sessions aimed at diverse groups across the Emirates. The objective is to disseminate information widely, diminish stigma, and elevate national consciousness regarding mental health issues.

The agenda for the forum encompasses a range of subjects including child care practices, the role of educational institutions in bolstering psychological and social health, and how community and healthcare organizations can offer psychological support to children. The programme is designed to equip participants with practical skills and an empathetic approach towards mental health challenges.

This initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing understanding of mental health issues among mothers and children, strengthening support systems and policies, and fostering sectoral cooperation. Through these efforts, the forum aims to contribute significantly to the creation of a supportive environment conducive to psychological and social development.

With inputs from WAM