The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has announced a new integrated mental health framework. Dubbed the Mental Wealth Framework, it will facilitate the introduction of a number of wellbeing-focused initiatives over the next few years.
Launched under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the Framework is geared towards supporting mental wellbeing in Dubai.
According to the DHA, the AED105 million Mental Wealth Framework falls under the Dubai Social Agenda 33 scheme and includes ten initiatives set to be implemented over the next five years.
The Framework will reportedly cover all aspects of mental wealth services, early detection, intervention, enhancement, and prevention.
The Authority shared that there will also be a focus on mental health in education, involving schools, staff, and parents.
Other strategic objectives it shared include the promotion of research and innovation in the field.
Indeed, in association with this, it was noted that a series of studies will be conducted to ensure the “continuous measurement and achievement of psychological and community stability” for individuals, particularly those who are prioritised in the Framework, including the elderly, children, people of determination, and those with chronic diseases.
Commenting on the Framework launch, His Excellency Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority, said that “mental wealth” is an integral part of the health and welfare of the community, and that achieving it requires “scientific and systematic intervention” to manage the demands and pressures of everyday life and their potential consequences.