The session discussed women’s psychological and psychosocial support services at HMC, and the objectives of mental health nursing, family therapy, and its uses in psychology and psychiatry. It also focused on the role of pharmacists in providing pharmaceutical care to improve the mental health of women in Qatar, occupational therapy, the role of social workers and nutritionists, and the importance of proper nutrition.
Dr Majid al-Abdulla, senior consultant and chairman of psychiatry at HMC, said, “Most people can live well and be mentally healthy, as long as they have the opportunity to talk to someone. It is really important for people to share their experiences with a psychologist for psychological health problems, and a psychiatrist for more serious mental health issues, so they can get the right help they need."
Dr Sazgar Abdullah Hamad, clinical leader for HMC’s Women’s Wellness Center, virtual women’s consultation, and perinatal service said, “The Women’s Mental Health team provides multidisciplinary support for women experiencing psychologically challenging times, avoiding the escalation of mental health problems and their impact on a woman’s quality of life. In addition, our goal is to inform and empower women to help them manage their daily mental health and well-being challenges in positive and constructive ways.
"This programme is the first of its kind in Qatar, and is one of the most effective methods even at an international level, with digital and face-to-face services being available and those who use its hotline being able to get a digital consultation within 72 hours of calling."
Dr Maha al-Subaie, clinical fellow, HMC, emphasised, “The centre provides a virtual mental health service for women, through which we receive psychological cases and cases of mental illnesses. We provide professional and compassionate support for the mental health of pregnant and breastfeeding women, and provide psychological consultations for those who have lost their loved ones. Treatment include both medication and psychological counselling as needed, with consultations subject to complete confidentiality and privacy.”
Dr Maysam Medhat Abdel Wahab, a psychiatrist and family therapist at HMC, explained that if a family member has a psychological or mental disorder, it can affect the rest of the family. “Family therapy is used to treat psychological conditions and behaviour disorders, and in general it is considered a successful way to treat psychological problems that arise among family members,” she said.
The session also presented a case study of two women from Qatar’s community, illustrating the nature of the cases received by Women’s Wellness Center. Those interested in receiving counselling should contact the HMC hotline at 16000, where they will be able to speak to a team consisting of psychiatrists, social workers, psychologists, nurses, pharmacists, and nutritionists within 72 hours.
