MoH says ready to address war-caused anxiety, stress

KUWAIT CITY, March 28: As part of the efforts of the Ministry of Health to mitigate the repercussions of the current situation, Consultant Psychiatrist and Head of Kuwait Center for Mental Health Dr. Ammar Al-Sayegh said the mental health system is fully prepared to support the public, indicating that services are offered round the clock to address the anxiety and stress resulting from the events.

In a televised interview on Thursday, Al-Sayegh explained that feeling fear or anxiety upon hearing air raid sirens is normal. He urged people to deal with it calmly and consciously, considering the sirens an early warning and taking necessary precautions to guarantee safety. He stressed the importance of reassuring children, especially since loud noises can frighten them. He said the role of the family is to reinforce the sense of security of the children and explain the nature of the events simply, while emphasizing that authorities are protecting the country.

Regarding services, he indicated that the center offers psychological, behavioral and occupational therapies, with a commitment to maintain patient confidentiality. He pointed out that the 24/7 hotline (151) was established to receive inquiries and provide psychological guidance, especially for those unable to visit hospitals. He said cases requiring further follow up can be referred to specialized clinics, in addition to the continuous provision of emergency mental health services. He disclosed that the ministry has expanded mental health services through 76 clinics in various health districts in cooperation with the primary healthcare sector.

He stated that family physicians have also been trained to manage anxiety and depression and dispense necessary medications, and psychiatric clinics were established in public hospitals. He advised maintaining daily routines as much as possible, especially for children, by engaging in activities and hobbies like drawing and playing, as these help reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being. He also reassured the public about the availability of medication. He emphasized that the ministry prepared for such circumstances by securing sufficient drug quantities and ensuring continuous supply through alternative channels, thus, guaranteeing uninterrupted treatment. He stressed that mental health is an integral part of overall health, calling for a correction of misconceptions surrounding it and urging people not to hesitate to seek help when needed, as it is a natural condition and not different from any other illness.

By Marwa Al-Bahrawi Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff