UAE | Health
Psychological care to incorporate Western techniques
The level of care provided to psychological patients in Sharjah aims to be raised by incorporating Western psychological techniques and then adapting them to Muslim societies.
- By Mariam M. Al Serkal, Staff Reporter
- Published: 23:39 February 2, 2009
Sharjah: The level of care provided to psychological patients in Sharjah aims to be raised by incorporating Western psychological techniques and then adapting them to Muslim societies.
"The majority of our patients have schizophrenia and it is important to always update our techniques so that they can receive the highest level of care available," said Dr Jassim Mohammad Al Marzouqi, In charge of Psychological Support Sector at the Sharjah Social Services Department.
The announcement was made on Monday on the sidelines of the second International Association of Muslim Psychologist's Conference, which was inaugurated by His Highness Shaikh Dr Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.
The three-day conference received 142 research papers from 16 countries, including the UK, US, Australia and Malaysia.
The conference is held every four years with the aim to promote psychological research among Muslim communities.
The Social Services Department is currently a member of the Emirates Psychological Association, and so doctors and facilities are often exchanged between the two organisations.
The Psychological Support Sector is located in the area of Halwan, and patients are taken out twice a week on recreational tours and are encouraged to interact within the community through special programmes.
"We have more than 100 patients who have schizophrenia and mental disabilities, and 25 of them are living under our care," said Al Marzouqi, pointing out that the three main aspects that needed to treat patients are related to health, society and psychology.
Patients are taught on how to maintain a decent level of hygiene in addition to providing them with the necessary health care.
The Social Services Department not only caters to people with special needs but to abused children as well. The hotline number 800 700 was set up to offer a way out for children under 18 years old from being physically and/or sexually abused, or if they are commercially exploited, or those who are involved in drugs or prostitution.
Aiming for a secure environment for children
- The 24-hour hotline number 800 700 was set up by the Social Services Department with the aim to promote a secure environment for children living in Sharjah.
- Residents are encouraged to call if they suspect that a child is being abused
- All calls are confidential and each case is transferred to a specialized social care worker.
- Cases are classified either as "simple" or "dangerous."
- Social care workers visit the location of the case and intervene in the problem
- The Social Services Department supports children legally, socially and psychologically
Source: Sharjah Social Services Department
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