First Women’s Mental Health Facility Unveiled in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is enhancing women's mental health services with the introduction of a dedicated Women’s Mental Health Clinic at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC). In a partnership between SAKINA, part of SEHA, and SSMC, this pioneering clinic is designed as the emirate's first facility solely focused on providing culturally sensitive and targeted mental health support for women of all ages.

Positioned on Level 4 of Tower A at SSMC, the clinic welcomes patients from Monday to Friday between 8am and 4pm. Its primary goal is to facilitate straightforward access to mental health services delivered by an exclusively female team of qualified psychiatrists and psychologists, creating an environment of trust and confidentiality for those in need of assistance.

The clinic adopts a comprehensive, patient-focused methodology, addressing a variety of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, and stress. Patients can expect extensive psychological evaluations, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), individualized treatment strategies, and ongoing follow-up care. In addition to personal counseling, it offers group therapy sessions and peer support initiatives aimed at fostering emotional resilience and reducing social isolation.

A significant emphasis of the clinic is on perinatal and postnatal mental health. Regular assessments are integrated into antenatal care to identify women at risk during their pregnancy, while dedicated postnatal support programs provide vital care after childbirth to assist new mothers in coping with emotional challenges.

This initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader goal of enhancing community health and ensuring that women are afforded respectful, safe, and comprehensive mental health services. By merging clinical services with community-focused initiatives, the clinic aspires to create enduring support networks, aiding women in their mental health journeys.

The launch of this facility affirms Abu Dhabi’s promise to improve mental health accessibility, offering a specialized environment where women can find understanding and support for their emotional, psychological, and social requirements.