Conference Discusses Mental Health Intervention Strategies

A conference held at Birzeit University on April 16, 2016 discussed contributions made by Palestinian counselors and the organizations they work for in promoting psychological and social well-being during crisis.Organized by the Deanship of Students Affairs, the conference brought together a number of mental health experts and representatives from the Palestine Red Crescent, the Treatment and Rehabilitation Center for Victims of Torture, and the Palestinian Counseling Center“Birzeit University is keen on seeing greater psychological contributions in the implementation of health strategy,” said university president Abdel Latif Abu Hijleh. He emphasized the importance of getting more mental health support in reducing depression, anxiety and stress, especially during the political violence that Palestinian youth and children experience.Keynote speakers spoke about the experiences of counseling centers in offering mental health services, especially for youth who suffer from the effects of the Israeli occupation. Suggestions for implementing and enhancing prevention and intervention strategies and programs were addressed in the conference’s concluding session.