Abu Dhabi activates 24|7 mental health support helpline

Authorities in Abu Dhabi have activated a 24|7 mental health helpline - 800-SAKINA (800725462) - to ensure community members have access to qualified health professionals for "timely, trusted" support whenever they need it.

The hotline is bilingual, offering support in both Arabic and English to ensure it is accessible to all community members, including dedicated services to support children and families.

Callers can seek help for a wide range of concerns, with anxiety, panic, stress, difficulty sleeping or any other mental health concerns.

Individuals already managing mental health conditions can also receive advice on coping during periods of increased anxiety or change.

Dr Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), highlighted that the hotline will ensure that "every member of our community has timely, trusted mental health support whenever they need it".

"No concern is too small to discuss, support is available around the clock, and Abu Dhabi’s health system continues to operate safely and effectively for all community members."

She added that "the hotline aims to ensure that no one in Abu Dhabi feels that they have to face their worries alone, whether they have lived here all their lives or have recently arrived from abroad".

The hotline is set up in collaboration between DoH and Sakina, a mental health network under SEHA, a subsidiary of PureHealth.

Residents are encouraged to look after their mental health by maintaining regular routines, staying connected with loved ones, limiting exposure to distressing or unverified news, and seeking support when they feel overwhelmed.