PHCC initiated awareness campaign under the theme of “Mental Health in the Workplace” to mark World Mental Health Day. Following the theme this year, attention was focused around staff to raise awareness of the importance of mental health and has conducted numerous sessions across the Health Centres to support staff.
The sessions range from lectures, workshops, de-stress sessions, distributing brochures and presentations. Doctors, nurses, receptionists and other healthcare professionals like dietitians, physiotherapists and pharmacy staff have been participating in the awareness activities across health centres in the country. In some health centres, patients have also attended and participated in these sessions.
Following its continued drive to bring mental health to the forefront of healthcare on par with the significance of good physical health of the individual, the corporation recognized that it is a habit in the working environment to dismiss mental health ailments and the significance of raising awareness to address this challenge.
This increase in awareness and importance of mental health is intended to encourage employees to recognize symptoms of mental health and seek support when necessary, highlighting that support is available to help them deal with this in the working place
Dr. Samya Al-Abdulla, PHCC’s Executive Director for Operations is fully committed to helping patients with mental health and has emphasized that patients will be the main focus of the program. Dr Samya Al-Abdulla declared: “Ensuring the mental wellbeing of all of our employees is a priority at PHCC, as growth and development cannot occur in an organization where issues like anxiety, depression and stress are not addressed. We are delighted to be part of a national effort in Qatar this year to tackle the challenges that mental health problems present and encourage the conversation with employers across Qatar. We urge leaders in all industries to consider the mental wellbeing of their staff. Not only does this drive forward Qatar’s vision of enhancing the wellbeing of our community, but, also encourages efficiency and productivity in the workplace.”
Research shows that 1 in 4 people will have suffered from mental health at some point in their life. Depression is widespread along with anxiety and panic attacks and this is seen across most age groups. This could be attributed to the changes in lifestyle, the fast-paced nature of our life today and the pressures that are placed on us by the community and wider society.
PHCC targeted awareness campaigns aims to remove the stigma around mental health and create safe and comfortable platforms where individuals are aware of the support available to them and feel encouraged and empowered to start the conversation. PHCC was also the official sponsor of local mental health awareness event hosted by Wayak charity. A team of social workers from primary care hosted a booth in Katara raising awareness by sharing educational material, engaging the public in PHCC mental health clinics services and the importance of looking after your mental health.
The message from PHCC is clear, whether dealing with anxiety, depression or a family member in need of medical assistance, do not hide and remain silent but talk about it and seek the help you need.
