Mental Health: A Basic Human Right
- Experts at the World Congress 2025 "We Contain" in Sharjah emphasize mental health as an essential human right,particularly for individuals with disabilities,highlighting its crucial role in education,healthcare,and social...
- A central theme emerging from the "We Contain" Congress is the unequivocal assertion that mental health is a fundamental human right, not a privilege.
- the congress, hosted by Sharjah, brought together leading voices in the field to discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding psychological safety and support.The emphasis on rights-based approaches signals...
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Mental Health Recognized as a Basic Right at Sharjah‘s “We Contain” Congress
Table of Contents
Experts at the World Congress 2025 “We Contain” in Sharjah emphasize mental health as an essential human right,particularly for individuals with disabilities,highlighting its crucial role in education,healthcare,and social inclusion.
The Core Message: Mental Health is Non-Negotiable
A central theme emerging from the “We Contain” Congress is the unequivocal assertion that mental health is a fundamental human right, not a privilege. Experts and specialists participating in the dialogue session, “Mental Health is a right not to choose,” underscored that access to mental healthcare is as vital as any other basic right. This outlook is particularly critical when considering the needs of individuals with disabilities, where mental health challenges can significantly impact their ability to thrive.
the congress, hosted by Sharjah, brought together leading voices in the field to discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding psychological safety and support.The emphasis on rights-based approaches signals a growing global recognition of the importance of proactive mental health interventions.
Key Speakers and Their Insights
The dialogue session featured a diverse panel of experts, including:
- Sarah Al-amiri: Psychologist and behavioral guidance specialist, Sharjah Human Services City.
- amani Shukr: Psychologist and behavioral guidance specialist, Sharjah Human services City.
- Walaa Al-rifi: Psychologist and behavioral guidance specialist, Sharjah Human Services City.
- Cathy Dunkin: Expert in behavior modification.
These speakers collectively addressed the prominent challenges related to psychological safety and the crucial role of families, educational institutions, and community organizations in fostering an inclusive habitat for individuals with disabilities. Their discussions focused on supporting academic growth and social integration through respectful and supportive practices.
Psychological Challenges and Their Impact on Education
Sarah Al-Amiri highlighted the significant psychological hurdles faced by students with mental disabilities. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem frequently impede academic performance and social interaction. Alarmingly, studies indicate that a substantial proportion of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience co-occurring mental health conditions.
| Condition | Prevalence in ASD Population |
|---|---|
| At least one psychological disorder | 70% |
| Two or more psychological disorders | 40% |
These statistics underscore the urgent need for comprehensive treatment and behavioral interventions. Al-Amiri emphasized the effectiveness of behavioral cognitive therapy (BCT) and positive behavior support strategies in enhancing well-being and promoting positive development.
The Role of Behavioral Interventions
Cathy Dunkin, specializing in behavior modification, elaborated on the importance of tailored interventions. She stressed that understanding the unique needs of each individual is paramount to developing effective strategies. These strategies should focus on building coping mechanisms, fostering self-advocacy skills, and creating supportive environments that minimize triggers for anxiety or distress.
Furthermore, the speakers emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between educators, families, and mental health professionals to ensure a holistic approach to