In a significant move towards transforming mental health care, the Emirates Health Services Organisation hosted the International Mental Health Conference 2026 in Dubai. Under the theme “Stronger Together: Awareness Supporting and Community Embracing,” the conference aims to establish a more integrated and proactive approach to mental health. This paradigm shift focuses not merely on treatment but on fostering a supportive environment for mental well-being that begins at the family level, extends through schools and the community, and integrates into a comprehensive health and legislative system prioritising individuals and their quality of life.
Proactive Mental Health Services
Dr. Essam Al Zarouni, Executive Director of the Medical Services Sector at the Emirates Health Services Organisation, emphasised that the enhancement of mental health services goes beyond merely expanding therapeutic offerings. He stated that it is crucial for the health system to anticipate needs and intervene at the right time, establishing care pathways that intertwine health, social, educational, and community roles effectively.
Collaborative Efforts for Early Intervention
Dr. Nour Al Mehri, Director of the Mental Health Department at the organisation, remarked, “The family is a proactive partner in prevention, early intervention, and recovery.” She underscored the importance of collaboration with schools, primary care, and community sectors, actively involving youth, families, and those with lived experiences in discussions about service development. “The most effective care is built around the genuine needs of individuals,” she added.
Bridging Knowledge and Practice
Dr. Ammar Al Banna, Director of the Hope Hospital for Mental Health, highlighted the conference’s significance in bridging the gap between knowledge and practice. He noted that the event facilitates discussions that connect clinical reality with research, international practices, and the needs expressed by patients, families, and specialists. “This shared space is vital for developing practices more closely aligned with reality and enhancing responses to shifts in the mental health landscape,” he said.
Nurturing Family and Community Roles
Taking place in the year 2026, designated as the Year of the Family, the conference carries considerable national importance. It serves to translate the pivotal role of families into focused discussions about their contributions to enhancing mental health, prevention, early intervention, and recovery. Furthermore, the conference proposes a holistic approach that integrates the roles of families with those of the community and caregivers, aligning with ongoing efforts to ensure the effective implementation of the federal mental health law, which provides a framework for protecting rights and reinforcing practices that uphold the dignity of patients and their families.
The conference supports initiatives to solidify the effective implementation of the federal mental health law.