Special Olympics UAE Partners With Sakina Platform To Enhance Mental Health Support For Athletes

Special Olympics UAE has partnered with Sakina, a mental health platform by PureHealth, to enhance mental health support for its athletes. This collaboration aims to provide tailored psychological care and raise awareness about mental well-being in the community. The initiative underscores the importance of comprehensive mental health services for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Nuaimi, from Special Olympics UAE's Board of Trustees, highlighted the partnership's significance. "Special Olympics UAE is committed to working with leading healthcare providers across the country to enhance the services and programmes available to our athletes. This partnership with Sakina offers a crucial opportunity to provide specialised mental health support, ensuring that athletes of determination receive the care they need in all aspects of their lives."

As part of this initiative, Special Olympics UAE will train Sakina's staff under the Unified Healthcare Providers training program. This training will equip medical and administrative personnel with skills to address the unique needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Additionally, annual mental health check-ups will be provided for athletes, with referrals to Sakina clinics as needed.

Sakina's involvement extends to supporting Special Olympics UAE's Strong Minds programme. Their doctors will engage in preventive mental health care for athletes. Furthermore, Sakina will lead a mental health awareness campaign, offering lectures and psychological support sessions for people of determination, their families, and caregivers.

The partnership also includes launching a psychological education programme. This programme will feature workshops, sessions, and support groups aimed at key community stakeholders. These efforts are designed to foster a supportive environment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Dr. Zain Ali Al Yafei, CEO of Sakina, stressed the partnership's impact: "By signing this MoU with Special Olympics UAE, we reaffirm our commitment to advancing mental health care for all, ensuring equal opportunities and sustainable positive impact through an integrated approach."

This collaboration aligns with leadership goals to provide integrated care for those with intellectual disabilities. By enhancing mental well-being support, it empowers individuals to integrate more effectively into society. Training Sakina’s staff ensures they deliver high-quality care tailored to athletes' unique needs.

With inputs from WAM