|  | SKMC marks World Mental Health DayOct 7, 2009 - 12:36 - WAM Abu Dhabi, 6th Oct. 2009 (WAM) -- In line with its pursuance in raising health awareness, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), managed by Cleveland Clinic, is celebrating the World Mental Day, on 8 '&' 9 October, 2009 aiming to raise the public awareness on the importance of their psychological wellbeing.
SKMC is owned and operated by SEHA, the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company, which is responsible for the curative activities of all the public hospitals and clinics in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
The campaign is organized by the Behavioral Science Pavilion (BSP) of SKMC, a comprehensive psychiatric facility committed to providing mental health treatment services in the UAE for nationals and non-nationals.
Studies have shown that the majority of people do not really know, and some of them even neglect, their psychological situation as long as there is no physical pain mentioned. Therefore, the need for continuous education and public awareness about mental health is vital.
To start with, a scientific day is organized on Thursday 8 October 2009 at the BSP auditorium targeted to healthcare providers including physicians and nurses in general practice, primary care, family medicine, emergency medicine and psychiatry. The day will include 5 different presentations focusing on the mental health in primary care. The topics discussed will include behavioral emergencies, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, unexplained somatic complains and chronic tiredness, and psychotherapy outside mental health facilities.
Moreover, a healthcare team from the BSP will be available at the Marina Mall in Abu Dhabi on 9 October 2009. The team will be comprised of social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists and nurses who will provide the visitors with the right information on mental health as well as a free psychological consultation and advice. Personality tests and psych related questionnaires about anxiety and depression will also be conducted at the booth.
Dr. Scott Strong, CEO of SKMC, stated, "The BSP provides mental health services meeting international standards that distinguish the facility and its personnel as a leading provider of mental health services within the region".
He thanked the BSP staff for organizing the event activities and the sponsors for their cooperation and support. "SKMC is committed to promoting health awareness among the public", Dr. Strong said.
Dr. Maha Al Ameri, Director of BSP stated, "Through proper education and awareness, we envision the creation of mentally, and psychologically healthier community in Abu Dhabi where each individual has the right and the opportunity to live a full, healthier and productive life".
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