Short Communication
Mental Health Services in the United Arab Emirates: Challenges and Opportunities
Mohamed A. Sayed
Head, Department of Clinical Psychology, National Rehabilitation Center (NRC), Howard University, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- *Corresponding Author:
- E-mail: mohamed.sayed@nrc.ae
Abstract
Although there is a good standing and rich traditions of healing practices of psychological nature in the Arab world that go back to the eighth century and continues throughout the thirteen century, ironically, there has been a steady decline both in the breadth of services provided and the quality of services offered despite the increased knowledge and understanding of psychological practices. “The waning of the “Goodness” and viability of psychological practices maybe attributable in part to socio-political and historical events following that period in which the influence of Arab cultures as a whole over others has made the contribution of “Scholars of Arab” descend and extraction less visible and gives way to a paradigm shift that was incredible in its longstanding effects and consequent ramifications. Even today, most patients and families who are inflicted with a psychological problem, tend to see the infliction as part of a “mindset” that attributes a condition to “evil eye” or demonic passion”.
