ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)

PureHealth has partnered with the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood (SCMC) to enhance mental health initiatives across Abu Dhabi. The collaboration supports efforts to create a unified vision for mental health that prioritises mothers and children, and reflects PureHealth's commitment to providing accessible, holistic health services, advancing Abu Dhabi’s comprehensive mental health strategy, and improving community health outcomes.

Through the partnership both entities will focus on establishing a cooperative framework that strengthens their capabilities in supporting mental health initiatives. In addition, the agreement will extend to cooperation in other aspects of healthcare, including prevention, treatment and rehabilitation.

Rym Al Falasy, Secretary General of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, stated that this strategic partnership is part of the ongoing preparations for the upcoming Fatima Bint Mubarak Motherhood and Childhood Forum, scheduled to take place in October 2024.

The forum aims to raise awareness across all segments of society about the importance of mental health care, particularly for women, adolescents, and children. This focus on mental health is crucial due to its significant impact on the lives of these valuable members of the community, enhancing their quality of life and overall wellbeing. Furthermore, it reflects on the future of adolescents and children and their ability to contribute to the nation’s development and progress, as they are the future generations who will continue the nation’s successful journey.

Al Falasy added: "Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, the Mother of the Nation, consistently emphasises the importance of creating the optimal environment for mothers and children."

She reaffirmed the need to consider their psychological wellbeing and provide the highest quality services in this regard, ensuring that mothers can raise their children free from negative influences on their behaviour, beliefs, and understanding. This approach also protects children from the risks of psychological disorders, which can impact their academic achievement, social interaction, and future professional performance.

Al Falasy emphasised the commitment of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood in collaborating with all efforts and initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of mental health services provided to the people of the UAE, especially women and children. By doing so, they aim to provide a safe and sustainable environment supported by positive mental health, which in turn strengthens societal stability and happiness and supports the ongoing development and prosperity that the UAE witnesses.

Mental Wellness

For her part, Shaista Asif, Group Chief Executive Officer at PureHealth, said: “At PureHealth, we are committed to a vision of longevity that prioritises mental wellness as well as physical health. We understand that mental wellbeing is fundamental to overall health, and it's imperative that our healthcare system reflects this by providing holistic, inclusive services.  Our collaboration with SCMC enables us to advocate for and deliver mental health services tailored to the unique needs of mothers and children, ensuring that healthcare initiatives are accessible to everyone in the community more effectively.”

Dr Zain Al Yafai, CEO of Sakina, said: “This collaboration will enable both PureHealth and SCMC to extend their reach and enhance overall impact within the community, particularly among those most in need of mental health support. Sakina exemplifies how specialised services, such as those addressing neurodiversity and other specific mental health needs, can be integrated into broader health initiatives. This partnership aligns with the objectives of PureHealth’s latest initiatives, ensuring that mental health care is woven into the fabric of community health services.”