Dubai Health Authority (DHA) will showcase a range of services, initiatives, projects, and achievements, aimed at empowering people of determination, at AccessAbilities Expo for People of Determination taking place from October 7–9, at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

Dr Ramadan Al Blooshi, Advisor to the Director-General of DHA and Acting Director of Public Health Protection, said that the authority will focus on the importance of mental health awareness as part of the ‘Psychological Wellbeing in Dubai’ initiative.

This initiative aligns with the Dubai Mental Wealth Strategy of the DHA aimed at taking forward its mission: ‘Dubai, a home of health, happiness, and prosperity’.

Dr Al Blooshi said that this service targets students of determination across the UAE, including those in special needs centres and private schools in Dubai (inclusive education), while laying emphasis on the importance of this service in enhancing the quality of life in Dubai and promoting mental wellbeing, especially among students.

The service includes creating supportive environments to improve social and environmental conditions, changing the negative perception surrounding mental health, raising awareness of mental wellbeing among students, their families, and healthcare providers, and identifying the symptoms of mental health disorders and how to address them.

Additionally, it seeks to empower parents to deal effectively with such issues.

Dr Al Blooshi highlighted that this specialised service is provided free-of-charge to this group by DHA in collaboration with partners such as Appolonia Dental Centre, Dr. Nicolas & ASP, and Dr. Joy Dental Clinic, adhering to the highest standards and best healthcare protocols.

He also said that DHA will showcase its Early Eye Health Screening Programme as part of its annual school health services plan, which is implemented across the emirate.

The free service, being provided by a specialised team of medical professionals, focuses on preventing eye diseases, early detection of any health issues, and encouraging parents to conduct regular eye check-ups for their children.

The service is being offered in collaboration with partners including Al Jaber Optical Centres, Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai, Burjeel Hospital, and Barraquer Ophthalmology Centre.