The Abu Dhabi government has set up a 24-hour mental health hotline, amid growing concern about the impact of recent regional instability on the population in the United Arab Emirates.
The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi launched the 24-hour hotline in early March in partnership with Sakina to provide psychological support for people with stress, anxiety and sleep problems.
Hotline offers immediate support to residents
It operates a hotline, accessible at 800-SAKINA (800-725462), providing confidential counselling to callers by mental health professionals.
The hotline assists with many problems, including panic, stress, and emotional distress, officials stated. It supports individuals with pre-existing mental health problems as well.
It is also available in both Arabic and English.
The existing network supports long-term care
The hotline is complemented by a broader network of mental health clinics and centres through Sakina.
The system includes several satellite clinics, mental health centres and neurodiversity centres, and hundreds of health professionals, officials said.
The goal is to create a comprehensive and accessible mental health network in Abu Dhabi.
Officials urge residents to seek help
Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, the Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said help is at hand for those who need it.
“There will be no small issue. We offer 24-hour support and we will ensure the mental health of our community,” she said.
Authorities encouraged citizens to continue with their daily routine, to remain in contact with their family and not watch or read disturbing or false reports.
The state of mental health is a concern
Hotline was launched following the fact that this situation in the region developed a certain tension earlier this year, and residents started to raise concerns regarding their mental health.
Uncertainty and being exposed to the news may influence mental health, but the authorities mentioned that the factor has not impacted life in the UAE much yet. This has been an added burden to people, especially the expatriates in affected nations.
Mental health awareness remains a priority
Experts indicate that there is still a lack of willingness to seek assistance for mental health issues in the region.
The hotline aims to assist more people to seek help as and when they need it.
The relocation is a component of a broader initiative to improve health services and awareness with regard to mental health.
Support is available 24/7
It has a hotline, 800-SAKINA, which works 24/7 and the residents can request assistance.
Authorities indicated that the hotline shall be active to facilitate improving mental health service provision and availing support 24/7.
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