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Since 1999, a child psychiatry clinic is functioning under Dr. Marwan Al Sharbati who is now assisted by Dr. Ahmed.
This is the first and only child psychiatric clinic in the Sultanate, and has proved overwhelmingly popular. The clinic covers all psychological and psychiatric problems in childhood and adolescence. The clinic has also been a rich source of material for research on this virgin domain in this country.
Our studies show high prevalence of various mental disorders, especially ADHD among Omani children. The department feels that more time and resources need to be allocated for children with behavioral problems, bearing in mind the population structure with excess of youth. Therefore, we are seeking to further expand our child psychiatry facilities. Since children with problems are first likely to be seen by general practitioners, the Department also proposes to educate the doctors, as well as the general public, on the nature and extent of the problem. Already the Department is educating the public about childhood mental problems by giving workshops, seminars, TV and radio talks.
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