Mental health is an integral part of overall physical health, yet only recently has awareness of its importance become widespread. Countries around the world have now realised that psychotherapy is essential for the healthy living of individuals and communities, and that there is no place for the stigma that had haunted psychiatric practices for decades.

Given advances in medical research and technological breakthroughs in recent years, it has become possible to provide highly effective and comprehensive mental treatments, thus bridging the gap between physical and mental health. Community initiatives and awareness campaigns have also contributed to informing individuals about the importance of psychiatry and behavioural medicine and their role in promoting the balance and welfare of all citizens. In addition, both traditional and social media have played a key role in spreading knowledge, thus modifying the traditional view of psychotherapy so that access to this treatment has become more popular.

In the Sultanate of Oman, research findings have led to changes in health policies. For example, quick steps will be soon taken to integrate mental health services into the primary health care system, thereby allowing access to mental health care for anyone, anytime, anywhere.

In this context, Sultan Qaboos University plays a crucial role through enhancing mental health research, offering postgraduate programmes, cooperating with various health-care authorities, publishing scientific output, raising community consciousness and spurring innovation in psychotherapy. These efforts help in providing a deeper understanding, developing robust strategies to enhance the quality of life of Omanis and increasing global awareness. 

In this issue of Tawasul, we focus on mental health, a topic being prioritised in the health, social and educational sectors to build a balanced and cohesive society. We also present a comprehensive picture of the subject through a selection of articles, along with an interview with Dr. Wafa Said Al-Maamari, Head of the Department of Sociology and Social Work at Sultan Qaboos University.

You may read more : https://www.squ.edu.om/Portals/4/Tawasul/Aug-En-2024-s.pdf