The ninth annual Psychiatry symposium in Jeddah did just that when it offered a series of seminars titled “Psychiatric Patient's Welfare” (Integrated Biological and Psychological Therapies) at the Jeddah Hilton Hotel for two days from March 4. With mental disorders becoming increasingly prevalent, heterogeneous, life-threatening and of multi-faceted causation these days, the symposium aimed to create awareness as well as actions to manage these disabling conditions. The seminar was organized by Jeddah's Dr. Erfan & Bagedo Hospital, Psychiatry Department & CME Committee in collaboration with the Saudi Psychiatric Association (SPA), and attracted leading international experts in the field, both local and from abroad. It brought together social workers, sociologists, General Practioners, various other interested parties as well as the public. “This symposium reflects the desire and need of experts in the field to work together to address the overdue issues of Arab psychological wellbeing,” said Dr. Mohamed Erfan, Symposium Chairperson, GM & CEO of Dr.Erfan & Bagedo Hospital. The invited speakers at the event included Doctors Mohammed Fakhr, Abdullah Fadak, Ahmed Hafez, Ahmed Saad, Hans Peter Volz, Zaineb Beshri, Omar Al Modayfer, Mohamed Al Mahdi, Ali Akram, Andrea M. Fagiolini, Roger S. McIntyre, and Dieter Naber. The seminar was divided into two sessions, and the first day began with a welcome address by Dr. Mohamed Erfan, followed by a presentation titled “Culture and Mental Healthcare”, delivered by Dr. Mohammed Fakr El Islam. He spoke about the various aspects of culture influencing the management of healthcare. A hugely debatable and interesting presentation in Arabic titled “Psychology and Islam: an open debate”, was delivered by Dr. Abdullah Fadak. He spoke about the role of religion and advocated adopting a religious approach to psychological cases. A brief question and answer session followed afterwards. The highlight, however, was a rather taboo yet fascinating lecture on “Sex Therapy in Saudi Culture”, given by Dr. Ahmed Hafez. As a testament to the risk associated with speaking on such an issue, there was a screen separating male and female members of the audience, as well as many people – rather unfortunately – opting to miss out on the talk altogether. However, the topic proved to be an eye opener as it highlighted misconceptions about sex education in the Kingdom. It also brought to light issues regarding social pressures and the importance and benefits of sex therapy in our society. Dr. Ahmed also brought forth some of the disorders that some people may suffer from and there various treatment methods. He concluded by stating, “We need to communicate openly and challenge some of the negative thought that foster sexual dysfunction so as to provide with a healthy level of understanding for treatment.” This was followed by presentations on more well-known mental health disorders from Dr. Ahmed Saad, who spoke on “Schizophrenia Management Modalities and Approaches”, followed by “Depression Update in Art of Management” by Dr. Hans Peter Volz. The symposium was also a positive experience for many medical and pre-medical students who were in attendance, many of whom were attending such seminars for the very first time. “This has been a very enjoyable and educational seminar. I've learned so much,” said Mariam Zafar, a premedical student. Dr. Osama A. Younis, Senior Medical Representative of Pfizer spoke to Saudi Gazette and claimed that seminars are not only about creating awareness but is also a great opportunity for the medical community to stay in touch and remain updated. The second day's session included a presentation from Dr. Zainab Beshri, who spoke on “Biological and Psychological Therapies in Child Psychiatry”, followed by Dr. Omar Al Modayfer who spoke on “Treating Children through Families”. “Child psychopathology is commonly related to family environment and to treat this by rebuilding the relationship between mother and child will help build the future,” claimed Dr. Al Modayfer during his lecture. His presentation intended to educate families, empower the role of motherhood and change attitudes about children with mental health disorders. The session also covered the highly relevant topic of “Post traumatic stress in Palestinian children”, which was delivered in Arabic by Dr. Mohamed Al Mahdi. Dr. Erfan concluded the seminar by remarking “the aim of this symposium was to build bridges of cooperation and establish networks between Arab mental health professionals across the world.” The symposium certainly achieved that, as well as addressing many misconceptions about psychological disorders.
