Expanding Mental Health Services in Oman: Current Outlook, Challenges, and Future Perspectives
Abstract
Mental health services in the Sultanate of Oman have undergone substantial development over the past four decades, reflecting the country's broader achievements in healthcare. The establishment of specialized psychiatric facilities, expansion of child and adolescent mental health services, development of geriatric psychiatry, and strengthening of psychiatric education have significantly improved mental healthcare delivery. Despite these advances, challenges persist, including workforce shortages, unequal geographic distribution of services, stigma associated with mental illness, limited community-based care, and the absence of dedicated mental health legislation. This article reviews the current state of mental health services in Oman, highlights epidemiological trends, examines educational and training initiatives, and discusses future directions necessary to meet the growing mental health needs of the population.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/2455.7048.202611
How to cite this article:
Idicula B A, Al-Buraiki H A A, Chehade H A, Al-Mezeini K, Allawi H S M. Expanding Mental Health Services in Oman: Current Outlook, Challenges, and Future Perspectives. Epidem Int. 2026;11(2):13-19.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Binila Idicula
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