Department of Public Health Increases support of Mental Health

In coordination with WHO, the Iraqi Department of Public Health conducted a training workshop to improve mental health assistance and psychological support in primary health care facilities, mainly focusing on emergency situations. This workshop was done on the 29^th of April and had multiple individuals from other health departments conducting it, mainly the Department of Non-Communicable Diseases Prevention and the Division of Primary Mental Health Care.

The workshop taught about the difference between individuals suffering from psychological distress and the presence of psychological disorders found after crises. Furthermore, it went into detail on how to conduct psychological first aid and how to help the person in crises to heal from traumatic experiences. This is an important step towards the mental health of Iraqi citizens and is also part of a bigger initiative to improve the overall health services for primary health care in the country. Other efforts include a workshop to better regulate and clean the water for healthier use.  There was also the earlier celebration of Autism International day, which further raised awareness of mental health and neurodiversity within the country.

Mental health is a major aspect of any primary health services, especially after an individual’s potentially traumatic event. With these workshops on the subject, services meet the needs of all Iraqi citizens.

Source: Ministry of Health