User:Turtlesinthesand/Mental health in the Middle East

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Stigma around mental health
Even though, Islamic principles are established on getting treatment when necessary. Many in the Middle East continue to view mental issues as God punishing a certain individual. Hardships are perceived as proof that God has a plan for each person, which then leads to people perceiving mental illness as a test from God. Due to religion playing a large role in the Middle East, Muslims often reach out to religious leaders (Imams or Sheikhs) due to their prominent role in society. Due to the implemented importance of other's views, mental health in the Middle East is completely disregarded. An individual could not express their mental issues out of fear of being alienated due to their abnormalness. Children have chosen to struggle silently to prevent bringing shame to their families. Even after experiencing war, refugees from Afghanistan were unable to express their struggles due to the embarrassment that comes with it.

Recent Views
Historical views on mental health still remain prominent in the Middle East as the stigma has not changed even in the modern day. Having insufficient knowledge of mental health can lead to a higher probability of developing somatic symptom disorder. This is particularly evident in conflict-affected areas such as Syria and Palestine, where conditions like depression and stress frequently appear as physical health problems. These symptoms are often dismissed or ignored due to the widespread prevalence of similar challenges within the community. Studies have shown that in the Arab region, people tend to link mental health issues with cultural or religious beliefs. There is a highly prevalent stigma and negative attitude that surrounds mental health disorders, which leads to people not seeking appropriate help. Socially acceptable forms of seeking care are practiced by religious leaders, this method remains to be the most prominent form of seeking help.

Regional Variations
The overall lack of mental health services available across the Middle East is a largely contributing factor to people not seeking help. The impact of mental health varies throughout the Middle East due to some parts facing wars, economic difficulties, and sociopolitical unrest. In these countries, due to the challenges faced by individuals, the most basic needs are not met; therefore, mental health often is not prioritized. Whereas in more developed countries, such as Saudi Arabia, where free health care is provided and people do have access to mental health services as the availability of mental health professionals are widely available. Society's attitude towards mental health plays a substantial role in seeking help, compared to the service availability in developing countries. Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, includes expanding its mental health infrastructure, by having more services available to those who need help, as well as, the expansion of medical schools and training on mental health.