Founded in 2013, EMBRACE started as a program inside the AUBMC’s psychiatry department. Its goal was to break down the barriers that limit individual access to mental health care treatment. Over the years, EMBRACE evolved into an independent NGO and considerably increased the scope of its programs and services.
Lifeline (1564) is available 24/7 and provides referrals as well as vital emotional support, assessments of suicide risk, and crisis de-escalation. The EMBRACE Mental Health Center (EMHC), which provides free consultations operated by psychiatrists, therapists, social workers, psychiatric nurses and clinic assistants, is another example of EMBRACE’s dedication to delivering accessible mental health care. Additionally, EMBRACE’s devoted Awareness & Outreach department has made considerable progress in promoting awareness and reducing stigma.
In light of the upcoming initiatives, Ms. Nour Beaini, EMBRACE’s Project Coordinator, has announced that EMBRACE will embark on a groundbreaking project known as the Mobile Mental Health Clinic (MMHC). This innovative program attempts to eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness while promoting a culture of care and support-seeking.
Following these informative sessions, the mobile clinic will visit communities in Lebanon to conduct initial mental health examinations for service users. It will be staffed by qualified psychiatrists or general practitioners with a focus on mental health.
The required referrals will be made – in accordance with the assessment results – to chosen Primary Health Care Centers (PHCCs) in the locality, where mental health services will be seamlessly integrated for follow-ups, medication administration, and comprehensive treatment.
Commenting on the initiative, Ms. Nour said: “Our pilot Mobile Mental health Clinic aims to strengthen the ongoing efforts of NHMP in integrating mental health in Primary Health Care Centers (PHCCs).” With a focus on inclusive outreach and community involvement, EMBRACE’s MMHC initiative seeks to provide free access to mental health services to individuals 18 years and above while also empowering frontline staff members through specialized trainings and workshops.
