A New Milestone for Women’s Mental Wellness in Abu Dhabi
SAKINA, the mental health network operating under SEHA and part of the PureHealth group, has collaborated with Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City to introduce a dedicated Women’s Mental Health Clinic in Abu Dhabi. This new facility represents a significant step forward in addressing the emotional and psychological needs of women, offering specialized care in an environment designed to support comfort, privacy, and cultural sensitivity.
The clinic aims to fill the long-standing gap in mental health services designed specifically for women. By focusing on individualized support, compassionate care, and accessible services, the initiative is expected to make a meaningful difference in the lives of women across the UAE. Mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and stress are often influenced by life stages, social pressures, and biological factors, making women more vulnerable during certain periods. Having a center tailored to these needs ensures that women receive the appropriate care at the right time.
Holistic and Patient-Focused Mental Health Support
The Women’s Mental Health Clinic provides a wide range of services built on a holistic model of care. This approach recognizes that women’s mental health is influenced not just by psychological factors but also by their emotional and social environments. The clinic offers full psychological assessments to understand each woman’s unique situation before developing a personalized support plan.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, commonly known as CBT, is a core treatment offered at the facility. CBT helps women identify negative thought patterns, understand the causes of their emotional distress, and learn practical techniques to cope with challenges. This evidence-based therapy is particularly effective for conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress-related difficulties.
In addition to one-on-one therapy, the clinic provides group therapy sessions where women can connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges. These sessions encourage openness, emotional bonding, and mutual understanding in a safe and supportive space. Peer support programs are also available, helping women build confidence and develop stronger social connections to combat isolation.
Focus on Perinatal and Postnatal Mental Health
One of the clinic’s major areas of specialization is perinatal and postnatal mental health. Many women experience emotional changes during pregnancy and after childbirth, and some may struggle with more serious mental health challenges such as perinatal anxiety or postnatal depression. These conditions often go undiagnosed due to social stigma, lack of awareness, or limited access to specialized care.
To address this issue, the clinic integrates mental health assessments into routine antenatal care. This early screening allows healthcare professionals to identify women at risk before symptoms escalate. By recognizing the early signs of emotional distress during pregnancy, the clinic ensures that proactive support is available to both expectant mothers and new mothers.
After childbirth, mothers may face a wide range of emotional and psychological changes. The clinic’s dedicated postnatal services help women adjust to motherhood, manage stress, navigate hormonal shifts, and address any symptoms of anxiety or depression. These services play a crucial role in helping women build emotional resilience and maintain a stable mental state during a vulnerable period in their lives.
A Safe, Female-Led Environment for Care and Healing
One of the defining features of the Women’s Mental Health Clinic is that it is entirely operated by female psychiatrists and psychologists. This aspect makes the clinic unique in Abu Dhabi and ensures that women can express their concerns freely and comfortably. The presence of an all-female clinical team helps remove social barriers and encourages open, honest conversations about emotional health.
The facility respects cultural norms and values, making it easier for women from diverse backgrounds to seek help without hesitation. Privacy, trust, and empathy are at the center of every interaction. By integrating social, psychological, and emotional perspectives into care, the clinic aims to provide long-term support rather than temporary solutions.
Convenient Location and Service Hours
The Women’s Mental Health Clinic is located on Level 4, Tower A at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City in Abu Dhabi. The location is easily accessible and designed to provide a calm and welcoming atmosphere. The clinic operates from Monday to Friday, between 8am and 4pm. These convenient hours ensure that women from across the capital can schedule appointments without difficulty, whether they are working professionals, homemakers, or mothers managing daily responsibilities.
Leadership Perspectives on the New Clinic
Dr Zain Al Yafei, Chief Executive Officer of SAKINA, emphasized that the new clinic is an important step toward improving access to specialized care for women. He noted that the initiative reflects a commitment to building resilience, promoting wellbeing, and encouraging open conversations about mental health. He highlighted that supporting women emotionally contributes to a stronger and more connected community.
Dr Abdulqader Almessabi, Chief Medical Officer at SSMC, stated that women’s health remains a top priority. He explained that the clinic aims to create a warm, understanding environment where women feel safe expressing their concerns. According to him, providing women with a supportive space enables them to address mental health challenges confidently and seek long-term healing.
Why Dedicated Mental Health Support for Women Matters
Women often face unique emotional and psychological pressures fueled by family responsibilities, social expectations, life transitions, and biological changes. Mental health issues among women, especially during pregnancy and postpartum periods, can have long-term effects if left unaddressed. A dedicated mental health clinic ensures that these challenges are taken seriously and treated with expertise.
The availability of specialized care encourages early intervention, which is crucial for effective treatment. Women who receive timely support often show improved emotional resilience, better coping abilities, and a more positive outlook on life. In many cases, supporting a woman’s mental health can have a positive impact on her family, her relationships, and her overall quality of life.
Strengthening Community Wellness Through Mental Health Awareness
The establishment of the Women’s Mental Health Clinic contributes to the broader vision of promoting a healthy and resilient society. By addressing women’s emotional and psychological needs, the clinic indirectly supports families and communities. When women feel emotionally supported, they are better equipped to contribute positively to their households, workplaces, and social circles.
The programs offered at the clinic aim to raise awareness about mental health and reduce the stigma often associated with seeking help. Workshops, therapy sessions, and educational programs empower women to understand their emotions, address challenges early, and take active steps toward emotional wellbeing.
Conclusion
The launch of the Women’s Mental Health Clinic by SAKINA and Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City marks an important advancement in women’s healthcare in Abu Dhabi. With its emphasis on holistic care, early intervention, and emotional empowerment, the clinic represents a meaningful step toward improving mental wellness among women. By offering a safe, female-led environment and specialized programs tailored to women’s unique needs, the clinic aims to transform the way women access and experience mental health support.
Women across Abu Dhabi now have a dedicated space where they can receive compassionate care, practical guidance, and long-term support. This initiative is not only a healthcare development but a powerful commitment to strengthening emotional health, building resilience, and promoting wellbeing for women and their communities.
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