UAE Government has ensured that all citizens and residents health remains a priority during pandemic.

On Tuesday, Mona Khalil, director of the government communications department at the Ministry of Community Development, explained how the leadership has extended all efforts to keep community’s mental health a priority and support it. “The impact that may arise from the pandemic was considered in order to support the community through initiatives and preventive means and ensure safety and stability,” she said.

For country’s frontline workers a mental health helpline was launched which has put a separate telephone line that provides them moral support. “Another support line was extended to residents, helping them tackle psychological challenges while ensuring their privacy,” said Khalil.

“Then, the UAE Red Crescent has taken care of the families of those who have sadly died of the virus. These include people of all nationalities living in the UAE,” she added.

‘We Are Your Family’ was another initiative that was launched targeting senior citizens. Furthermore, ‘You are important’ campaign was introduced that would help all workers to give priority to their mental health.

Through Taalouf initiative, the Ministry of Community Development is offering family counselling remotely to those in need. A seven-week long national mental support campaign ‘Don’t worry’ was also launched on various social media platforms, that led to over 900,000 interactions.

“We emphasise the importance of mental wellness and providing the necessary mental support to all segments of society, especially children and the elderly, and educating them about positive practices and activities supporting mental wellness,” Khalil said.