A group comprising 22 volunteers have come together as a family to spread optimism and provide psychological counselling to many who are facing issues due to the outbreak of this pandemic that has hit the world. 

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Abeer al Mujani, head of Psychology of Youth, said, “We launched an initiative called ‘Tatamen’ in cooperation with the National Youth Commission on April 23. “More than 20 volunteers are participating in this initiative. ‘Psychology of Youth’ is an Omani volunteering team that hopes to raise awareness on mental health issues in our country.” 

She added, “The initiative aims to support the community, spread reassurance in the hearts of people, instil hope, and provide mental and psychological health counselling. The service is available through an interactive electronic platform. It also provides content under the supervision of a group of doctors and psychologists.”   People can talk of any kind of problem that they face today, said Abeer. 

“The platform provides psychological support within the framework of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is the first-of-its-kind initiative where people have the liberty to chat about anything with a psychologist that makes them feel uncomfortable or anxious.” 

The site also has a section on details of all psychological support services provided remotely by different institutions. “The initiative seeks to spread the view that we are not the only one who are sufferring from the pandemic. We want everyone to share their stories and experiences of the problems they are  facing due to the outbreak of the coronavirus. Draw inspiration from each other, share effective methods, and reassure everyone.” 

On future plans, she said, “This initiative will continue until the end of the epidemic, but the site will continue to spread awareness among all members of society. 

Anyone who wants to communicate with us can visit us at  psychcovid19oman.com or @youth_omn_psych (Instagram).”