Doha: The Mental Health helpline has radically changed access for individuals in need of professional advice and care.
The helpline has also become a point of access as Qatar continues to ensure ease of access to mental health services that are free from stigma.
Mental Health and Wellbeing is a major strategic priority of the National Health Strategy, which aims to improve access, reduce stigma and integrate physical and mental health. The Helpline has been instrumental in achieving this purpose, while also enabling easier access to professional support for those who may have struggled to seek help previously, according Iain Tulley, National Lead for Mental Health and CEO of the Mental Health Services at Hamad Medical Corporation.
“The launch of the mental health helpline in April 2020 has been one of the most impactful developments in recent years,” he told The Peninsula.
The helpline was established by the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) and Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) with backing from Primary Healthcare Corporation (PHCC), in response to a growing awareness of the emerging psychosocial impact of the pandemic on the population.
However, the scope of service has been broadened to provide greater access to a range of support and treatment, said Katja Warwick-Smith, assistant executive director, Clinical Service Development, who is among the key contributors to the development of the helpline.
“The Mental Health Helpline allows people who may be experiencing stress or anxiety to easily seek professional mental health support by calling the helpline to speak to a dedicated team of mental health professionals,” she said.
“Anyone can call the helpline and all details will be kept confidential. We have seen a growing number of people seeking help, which is a very positive approach towards mental health care,” she said.
“While our hope is that the pandemic is, largely, behind us, our aim is to continue with the mental health helpline as an important component of our overall mental health and wellbeing service delivery,” she added.
Everybody feels down, sad, frustrated, stressed or anxious at times, but it’s important to be able to recognise when a mood or behavioural change has become more than a temporary thing.
“If you are feeling any concerns for your personal mental health and wellbeing at all, there is never a wrong time to seek help. You are encouraged to seek help at any time,” said Warwick-Smith.
“Some of those who seek help through the helpline disclose that they have been struggling for a long time. No one should struggle alone, we are here to help anyone who needs help,” she added.
The helpline has managed over 43 000 calls since its launch and currently receives 350 to 400 calls a week. To access services of the Mental Health Helpline Service call 16000, press 2 for English, 4 for National Mental Health Helpline .
