Details

This policy council proceeding reports on a policy dialogue that engaged a group of experts and practitioners in the field and aimed at identifying opportunities offered by the local context in terms of education and healthcare. The council discussed challenges that policymakers and practitioners encounter in promoting better mental health and well-being policies for UAE school children. The importance of such dialogue stems from the urgent need to address mental health policy and services, as mental health issues are predicted to increase with time.

The council identifies a number of challenges facing mental healthcare in the UAE, such as lack of clear policy directives, shortage of service providers, and social stigma. Policy recommendations were developed at the end to inform policymakers on possible options to overcome challenges and make the most of the present opportunities.