The impact of mental disorders on the health of Qatari citizens and residents is set to be the subject of a significant research study led by University of Calgary in Qatar researcher, assistant professor Dr Vahe Kehyayan, PhD. The study will examine attitudes toward mental illness and its treatment among patients, their families, and doctors and nurses in the health system. “Everyone knows someone who is living with a mental illness,” says Dr Kehyayan. “A recent study has suggested that 25% of people in Qatar have a mental illness; so these are our families and friends — everyone is touched in some way by this.”
Dr Kehyayan points out that studies in other parts of the world indicate that the stigma associated with mental illness can prevent people from seeking effective medical treatment.
Mental illness can also have an impact on other areas of health, including increased risks around smoking, reduced activity, poor diet, obesity, and blood pressure. However, very little research on the stigma of mental illness has been done in the Middle East, and this study aims to improve understanding of the issue in Qatar and in the region.
