DUBAI: The 4th Annual Mental Health and Neurology Conference, organised by the American Wellness Center (AWC), concluded successfully at Dusit Thani Hotel, Dubai, attracting healthcare professionals, policymakers, and global experts dedicated to mental health advancements.
Held on 7–8 February 2025, the conference reinforced the urgency of mental health accessibility and awareness, drawing attention to key challenges and solutions shaping the future of patient care.
The event featured a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Muhammad Bin Talia, Head of Government Services, UAE, Dr. Noor Al Mehiri, Director of the Mental Health Department, and Dr. Ammar Humaid Albanna. Their participation underscored the UAE’s commitment to mental health reform.
Dr. Muhammad S Tahir, Founder of the American Wellness Center and Consultant Psychiatrist, delivered a compelling keynote address, stating: "Mental health is not a luxury; it is a necessity and a fundamental right of every human being. We must continue our efforts to reduce stigma and improve care for all."
He also highlighted the risks of neglecting mental health, warning, “The price is too high to ignore mental health compared to stigma.”
Key discussions and sessions
The conference served as a platform for in-depth discussions on cutting-edge research, innovative treatment methods, and patient care strategies. Experts engaged in panel discussions, interactive Q&A forums, and hands-on workshops, fostering collaboration in mental health and neurology.
One of the standout sessions focused on effective communication in mental health discourse. Dr. Tahir shared an insightful perspective: "In a physical fight, you must defend. In a verbal fight, you must NOT defend. You can say your point of view but not in a defensive way because it does not work and makes it worse."
Professional development
A key highlight of the conference was the awarding of 14 Continuing Medical Education (CME) points, accredited by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), providing valuable professional development opportunities for healthcare practitioners.
With a hybrid format, the event reached a global audience, ensuring accessibility to expert insights and discussions beyond Dubai.
Looking ahead
The American Wellness Center expressed gratitude to all speakers, guests, and attendees for their contributions. With its ongoing initiatives, AWC continues to drive awareness, education, and patient care improvements in mental health and neurology across the UAE and beyond.