Under the supervision of the Dean of the College of Pharmacy, Associate Professor Dr. Sarmed H. Kathum Alkhateeb, the Scientific Affairs Unit in the College of Pharmacy/University of Baghdad, held an in-person seminar given by the MSc. student in the clinical pharmacy department, pharmacist Zaid Sabti Jumaah, about the perceptions of general population about mental health services in Baghdad, Iraq, as a part of the MSc. study thesis to obtain MSc. degree, under the supervision of Assistant Professor Dr. Ali A. Al-Jumaili. The seminar, provided a comprehensive overview of the healthcare situation in Iraq. The study revealed that access to mental health services remains a significant challenge due to the social stigma associated with mental illness. Through interviews conducted at healthcare centers and pharmacies, the research identified negative perceptions of these services stemming from social stigma, a lack of privacy, and a shortage of non-pharmacological therapeutic sessions. The results underscore the need to raise awareness and educate the public about mental health while enhancing the quality of mental health services. Additionally, collaboration between healthcare providers and the community is crucial to overcome these challenges.
