Mental health services in Egypt during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has irreversibly altered the medical landscape. Compromised mental health among medical staff and the general population has called for new patient approaches, therapies, and medical services, among which Telehealth features prominently. Results: This paper discusses the structure, approach, and efficiencies of pandemic-related mental health services in Egypt and summarizes responses and initiatives launched by the government of Egypt. A particular focus on the General Secretariat of Mental Health and Addiction Treatment (GSMHAT)’s action plan as well as Ain Shams University’s hospital Okasha Institute of Psychiatry sheds light on localized responses to the pandemic’s psychological impact. Conclusions: Data showcasing the several types of Telehealth employed are used to derive conclusions about the merits and challenges of emerging online treatments within the context of COVID-19.