Abu Dhabi recently turned a simple weekend morning into something powerful. Thousands of residents, students, health professionals, and families came together to take part in a Mental Health Awareness Walk. The event, held in the heart of the city, was more than just a stroll—it was a strong message from the people of the UAE: mental health matters.
The walk was part of a growing effort across the country to raise awareness, remove stigma, and start more open conversations about mental wellbeing. Organisers called it a success—not only in terms of the crowd it attracted but in how it made people feel more connected and supported.
A Step Towards Awareness
The event took place along a scenic route in Abu Dhabi, with green parks and calm water views in the background. Participants wore themed T-shirts, carried signs with messages like “It’s okay to not be okay” and “Mental health is health,” and many even painted their faces or wore green ribbons—the international colour for mental health awareness.
Volunteers and staff lined the walkway to cheer on participants, offer water, and share leaflets about local mental health services. There were also booths set up by hospitals, clinics, and wellness centres offering free mental health checkups, mindfulness exercises, and expert tips on handling stress and anxiety.
Community Coming Together
One of the most touching parts of the event was how people from all walks of life came together. School groups, elderly couples, young professionals, and even parents with babies in strollers took part in the walk. Several UAE-based organisations also joined the cause, bringing their teams and employees to support the initiative.
“I’ve struggled with anxiety for years, and this is the first time I’ve seen something like this,” said Rania, a 27-year-old resident who joined the walk with her coworkers. “It feels amazing to know we’re not alone.”
Speakers at the event included psychologists, mental health advocates, and even celebrities who have opened up about their personal experiences with mental health. Their stories encouraged people to be kinder to themselves and reminded everyone that healing starts with conversation.
Focus on the Youth
A large number of participants were school and university students. Many schools across Abu Dhabi promoted the walk among their students, encouraging them to attend with their friends and families. Teachers highlighted the importance of these events in teaching children and teens how to care for their mental wellbeing from a young age.
Workshops and interactive activities were available for younger participants, such as art therapy stations, breathing exercises, and storytelling sessions focused on emotional health.
“Mental health is often ignored in kids and teens,” said one teacher who attended with her class. “It’s great that Abu Dhabi is creating a safe space where they can learn to express their feelings and understand how to deal with stress.”
Support from the Government
The event was supported by health departments and local authorities who have been working to improve access to mental health care in the UAE. In recent years, the UAE government has increased funding and introduced several initiatives focused on mental wellness in workplaces, schools, and the healthcare system.
Officials at the walk said they were proud of the turnout and hope to make it an annual event. They also mentioned that feedback from participants will help shape future mental health policies.
“We’re here to listen, not just talk,” said one official from the health sector. “This event is part of a wider plan to make mental health a key part of the country’s healthcare system.”
More Than Just One Day
Although the event lasted just a few hours, its impact was deeper and long-lasting. Many who attended said it opened up conversations they hadn’t had before—with friends, family members, or even with themselves.
Mental health professionals at the walk handed out information about free helplines, support groups, and counselling services available across the UAE. Social media was also buzzing with photos, videos, and personal stories shared under hashtags supporting mental health awareness in the region.
Some participants pledged to continue raising awareness in their own ways—by talking more openly about mental health at work, checking in on friends regularly, or even joining mental health training programs.
“It’s not about one walk,” said one young participant. “It’s about the small steps we take every day to support our mental health and others’.”
The Bigger Picture
Events like this show that mental health is becoming a top priority in the UAE. With a fast-paced lifestyle and increasing awareness of emotional wellbeing, more people are starting to speak up and seek help when they need it.
Experts say that while the stigma still exists, it is slowly breaking down. Public walks, awareness campaigns, and open forums like this one play a huge role in changing how society views mental health.
More importantly, it shows that the UAE is not just focusing on physical health but also making space for emotional and psychological care.
What’s Next?
After the success of this walk, organisers are planning more community-led mental health events throughout the year—ranging from panel discussions to creative therapy sessions and well-being festivals.
They are also calling on schools, workplaces, and social influencers to keep the conversation going and help make mental health support more visible and available to everyone, regardless of age or background.
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