WC_BLOG_ARTICLE_The stigma of Mental Health in MENA needs a new approach

The stigma of Mental Health in MENA needs a new approach

25 December, 2022 7 min read

https://www.giggulf.bh/documents/554082/0/meena.jpg/e3b3064b-29e5-e027-1aeb-126efb896697?t=1704954497044

 

COVID-19 has left deep social and psychological scars in the MENA region, with rising numbers of loneliness, isolation, and economic despair. All stakeholders have an opportunity to utilize new technologies to reach the most vulnerable.

 

Just over a year after the start of the pandemic, it is clear that Covid-19 is affecting our long-term health and well-being. According to GIG Gulf’s 2021 Pulse Health Survey, carried out jointly with research firm Ipsos, more than a third of people (34%) say their health has deteriorated during the Covid-19 pandemic. The survey examines the impact of Covid-19 on people’s health and well-being and covers fourteen countries and territories from around the world including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

 

Generally, women have fared worse than men; they are more likely to feel tired, to suffer from stress and to have trouble sleeping – all factors that may damage long-term health. At the same time, going to the doctor has become harder. An astonishing 62% of those surveyed say they have had problems getting treatment because of the pandemic. Fear of contracting Covid-19 is preventing many from visiting clinics or undergoing necessary surgeries. Many of those with chronic illnesses like cancer and heart disease have seen their conditions worsen. It is also clear that lockdown measures are taking their toll. Levels of stress and anxiety have risen sharply. 30% of those surveyed say they have suffered from psychological problems since the start of the pandemic, more than any other condition. People are worried, not only about their health, but also about the economic consequences of the crisis that have impacted their jobs and livelihoods.  Younger people are most at risk – 42% say they have had psychological problems since the Covid-19 outbreak began. In Europe, anxiety has worsened because of fears relating to health systems being overwhelmed. 38% of the participants mentioned that they are not sleeping as well – 45% admit their overall fitness level has deteriorated and 38% have seen their weight increase.

 

Virtual emotional well-being

In light of this, there is an urgent need for us to collectively rethink strategies that will help us tackle this ever-evolving global health crisis. One of the key strategies includes access to virtual well-being and mental health services, which has undoubtedly become essential. With the ability to engage in virtual sessions – from the comfort and privacy of one’s home – with psychologists based anywhere in the world, this outlet for addressing the growing psychological discomfort is becoming a necessity for millions, especially during prolonged periods of isolation.

Recognizing this need, we have witnessed many companies from across the region starting to request access to virtual psychological support for their employees as part of their healthcare insurance packages. By making this service available to employees, organizations are investing in both the well-being of their staff and in the maintenance of corporate performance. Happier, healthier employees are more productive and engaged, which ultimately reduces absenteeism and the costs related to avoidable healthcare claims.

 

Stigma and sensitivities

Utilization of such virtual well-being and mental health services are mainly driven by individuals that have the ability to acknowledge their mental status. This can prove a complicated hurdle in the MENA region where awareness of mental health issues is relatively low. This lack of awareness can result in individuals experiencing chronic stress or emotionally testing situations without seeking professional help. Either because they are unaware of how and when to do so, or for fear of social stigmas and taboo discussions such as suicide; ignoring symptoms of poor mental health can be extremely damaging. Across the region, people are more likely to suppress their psychological problems which ultimately impacts their physical well-being, quality of life and overall health and happiness.

Healthcare providers and insurers have an opportunity to help reduce the stigmas around mental illness and change attitudes towards overall mental health by widening the discussions on the topics. By curating holistic and confidential well-being provisions, their clients and members can feel supported and more able to discuss any psychological issues they may be facing.

 

Saving lives

Recognizing these requirements and benefits, healthcare providers and insurers are beginning to implement a more holistic approach to health and well-being by providing access to quality health services through video and audio consultations as part of their core offerings. For example, GIG Gulf now offers virtual well-being services, which provide the convenience of real-time consultations, cost efficiency, and safety during the current pandemic. These services include access to MindSet, GIG Gulf’s confidential tele-support offering that provides emotional well-being counselling by licensed psychologists.

Moving forward, greater engagement of holistic well-being services will continue to support our healthy recovery and help us become more conscious of some of the health issues that a majority of us face. They will encourage better understanding and increased awareness of the link between mental and physical health, while also educating us about the need for early detection and prevention. For some, this can mean the difference between suicide or survival.

Tags
Mental Health Health and Wellbeing
Related articles

WC_BLOG_ITEM_HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Mental Health & Emotions
The stigma of Mental Health in MENA needs a new approach
COVID-19 has left deep social and psychological scars in the MENA region, with rising numbers of loneliness, isolation, and economic despair.
10 August, 2022 7 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
Change your habits, change your lifestyle!
As your Health and Wellbeing partner, we are committed to giving you the tools to understand WHY and HOW you should be setting goals for 2023 to be your healthiest year yet.
01 January, 2023 5 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
Don’t Worry, Be Happy!
The subconscious mind holds our “programming”. The culture, values, thoughts, and beliefs that we grew up with are coded into our subconscious mind
10 January, 2023 4 min read
Physical health
It’s time to quit Smoking!
Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps you can take to improve your health. This is true no matter how old you are or how long you have smoked.
15 January, 2023 6 min read
Self Development
You Need to Take Care of You!
Stress-relieving practices quiet the mind, balance hormones, including cortisol (the stress hormone), lower blood pressure and improve brain health
20 January, 2023 3 min read
Self Development
Stop making resolutions
Stop making New Year’s Resolutions & start making SMART goals that work for you.
25 January, 2023 6 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
Benefits of Goal-Setting
It’s easy to get caught up in our daily routines: letting weeks turn into months, months turn into years.
03 February, 2023 4 min read
Self Development
The Magic of Setting & Writing Your Goals
Most people believe that goal setting is important, yet only 2 out of 10 people set defined goals!
08 February, 2023 2 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
Supporting our children
Effects of bullying on our children’s health and how to support them as parents
10 February, 2023 5 min read
Nutrition
World Cancer Day
This month is all about boosting our immunity. February 4th was World Cancer Day, and we want to empower you ...
12 February, 2023 4 min read
Nutrition
Healthy Habits During Ramadan
Ramadan is a month dedicated to spirituality and self-discipline. For many, however, it ends up being a month of overindulgence, poor sleep and ...
21 March, 2023 5 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
Ramadan 101: What is Ramadan & what is its significance?
Ramadan is a time for Muslims and non-Muslims in this region to slow down, reflect, and re-focus.
21 March, 2023 3 min read
Physical health
Do’s and Don’ts of Fasting During Ramadan
Here is a list of Do’s and Don’ts for a better fasting during this Ramadan.
21 March, 2023 4 min read
Self Development
Managing Mood Swings & Cravings During Ramadan
While the focus of Ramadan is on spiritual purification and strengthening one's connection with God, it can also be a challenging time...
21 March, 2023 5 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
What is Mental and Emotional Wellbeing?
Mental and Emotional well-being are crucial elements in holistic wellness. They affect the way you perceive your....
17 April, 2023 6 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
Improving Mental and Emotional Wellbeing
Lack of mental and emotional wellbeing can manifest is various ways in different people. It’s important ....
25 April, 2023 7 min read
Wellbeing Events
MyWellness Week
Don’t miss out on the biggest wellbeing event of the year! win amazing prizes when you register, engage and share ....
08 May, 2023 4 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
Habits That Negatively Impact Mental Health
There are several habits that we all do in our day that have a negative impact on our mental health. The good news is, once you’re aware of these habits ....
06 June, 2023 12 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
Digital Fatigue and It’s Causes
Have you ever wondered why you felt exhausted after a day of working from home? Or why you woke up feeling unrested even though you’ve slept ...
19 June, 2023 3 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
Habits to Achieve Digital Wellbeing
Digital wellbeing is the antidote to digital fatigue. It describes a state of personal wellbeing that we experience through the moderated and...
21 June, 2023 5 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
Environmental wellbeing is not about the Environment
Have you ever asked yourself why you can only focus or be creative in certain spaces? How sometimes being in a place can make you uncomfortable ...
10 July, 2023 5 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
How to Design your Environmental Wellbeing
Research in environmental psychology has shown that our surroundings have a direct effect on our mental health, and nature has a powerful role in making us feel good.
13 July, 2023 4 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
From Team Burnout to Team Empowerment
“Burnout”. A phenomenon that has been spoken about so frequently. But what does it actually mean?
11 August, 2023 5 min read
Physical health
Get Your Flu Vaccine
Influenza is a virus that hits the respiratory system and causes infection of the nose, throat and lungs.
01 September, 2023 5 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
Back to School, excited or anxious?
School is knocking on doors, bringing with it feelings of both excitement and anxiety in your children. They may feel excited about seeing their...
24 August, 2023 5 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
The power of Workplace Friendships
What drives you to go to work? For most people it’s to make money, gain a sense of achievement or to contribute to society one way or the other. But when...
04 September, 2023 4 min read
Physical health
All About Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, that 1 out of 8 women has been diagnosed with breast cancer...
02 October, 2023 6 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
Men, Take charge of your health
The stigma surrounding men’s mental health is no secret, but how deep this stigma runs is what you may not be fully...
01 November, 2023 6 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
Self-care, not selfish!
Self-care is any activity that you do that restores your energy and nourishes you. It can be something relaxing such as getting a massage, something intellectual ....
16 November, 2023 5 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
A Guide to Self-Care During the Holiday
The holiday season is magical, but it can also be overwhelming. Amid the busy schedule and multiple activities, it's crucial ....
12 December, 2023 4 min read
Self Development
Setting and Achieving Your New Year Goals
As we approach the dawn of a new year, it's the perfect time to take a moment and reflect on the previous year and ....
08 January, 2024 5 min read
Nutrition
Unveiling Nutrition Myths
In the continuously evolving landscape of health and wellness, nutrition plays a vital role. However, amidst the oceans of ...
23 January, 2024 4 min read
Mental Health & Emotions
Reel vs. Real: Navigating the Blurred Lines of The Digital Age
Have you ever scrolled through Instagram feeds, meticulously crafted with sunny vacation photos and perfectly angled selfies, feeling a pang of inadequacy about your life ....
12 February, 2024 4 min read
Self Development
Managing Schedules in Ramadan
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and heightened devotion....
11 March, 2024 4 min read