MUSCAT: The activities of the Oman International Mental Health Conference 2026 began on Thursday, featuring the participation of a select group of specialists and experts in the fields of psychiatry, mental health, child and adolescent psychiatry, forensic psychiatry, clinical pharmacy, innovation, and research.
The event was held under the auspices of Dr Said bin Harib al Lamki, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Health for Health Affairs.
The organisation of the conference comes within the framework of Al Masarra Hospital's efforts to enhance the exchange of specialised expertise and knowledge in the field of mental health, highlight the latest scientific trends and practices, and provide a space for professional dialogue to discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with developing mental health services.
Dr Badr bin Ali al Habsi, Director of Al Masarra Hospital, in his opening speech mentioned the event represents a platform combining science, experience, and human dialogue, with the aim of consolidating the concept of mental health as an integral part of human health and quality of life.
He pointed out that the conference's theme, 'Listening to Real Experiences: Real Voices, Real Change,' is not merely a title, but rather reflects an approach to providing mental healthcare. He emphasised the importance of listening to the experiences of beneficiaries, understanding and respecting their needs, and engaging them as genuine partners in the recovery journey, stemming from the premise that listening is the beginning of understanding, and understanding is the beginning of change.
He affirmed that this direction aligns with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 in building a leading health system according to global standards, based on quality, the development of national competencies, the enhancement of scientific research and innovation, and the utilisation of technology and artificial intelligence in developing health services.
He clarified that Al Masarra Hospital aspires to be a distinguished psychiatric institution in accordance with international standards by 2040.
The Director of Al Masarra Hospital highlighted the hospital's efforts in developing an integrated system for mental health services, enhancing specialties, therapeutic, and rehabilitative programmes, and investing in the training and qualification of health cadres. This is alongside supporting scientific and research initiatives, as well as expanding community and awareness programmes that contribute to enhancing mental health awareness and reducing the stigma associated with mental disorders.
In his speech, he touched upon the importance of AI and modern technologies in developing mental health services, pointing to their potential in the areas of diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and access to services. However, he stressed that technology remains a tool that enhances human work and does not replace human presence, and that listening, empathy, trust, and human connection will remain the core of mental healthcare.
He emphasised that Al Masarra Hospital's ambition is not limited to keeping pace with global developments in the field of mental health, but rather lies in actively contributing to creating them through qualified national cadres, solid research, evidence-based practices, local and international partnerships, and services centred around the human being, their dignity, and their quality of life.
The conference included a specialised exhibition on artificial intelligence, innovation, and scientific research in mental health, highlighting the importance of employing modern technologies and supporting scientific research in developing services and practices in the mental health field.
The programme comprised three main sessions addressing a diverse range of specialised topics, with the participation of a number of experts and specialists from Oman, the United Kingdom, Iraq, Qatar and Canada.
In the first session, discussions covered topics including biomarkers and future criteria for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease, the role of religious healers in dealing with mental illness in Iraq, and the integration of artificial intelligence in mental healthcare and addiction treatment. This was alongside the experience of Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) in supporting mental health and well-being.
The second session focused on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) across life stages, early intervention in psychosis in Arab countries, and recent developments in the treatment of schizophrenia, in addition to a clinical case presentation on suicide by proxy.
The third session addressed a number of specialised topics, including the safety of Esketamine nasal spray in treating treatment-resistant depression, developing long-term management for schizophrenia patients, and violence risk assessment, thereby enriching the scientific discussion on a number of contemporary issues in the field of mental health.
The conference included panel discussions that allowed participants to interact with the speakers and exchange expertise and viewpoints on the topics presented.
The conference proceedings were preceded by three specialised workshops that addressed the impact of artificial intelligence on mental health, therapeutic communication skills, and the role of leadership in enhancing mental health and the work environment. These workshops witnessed the participation of community members, workers in the public and private sectors, specialists, and leaders.
The organisation of Oman International Mental Health Conference 2026 affirms the importance of continuously developing knowledge and professional practices in the field of mental health, and enhancing scientific and professional partnerships. This contributes to supporting the quality of services provided to beneficiaries and elevating the level of mental healthcare in Oman. - ONA
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
