In a significant step toward promoting mental wellness and emotional resilience among Egyptian women, the National Council for Women (NCW) held a seminar titled “Psychological Balance in a Changing World”, in partnership with the Fahim Foundation for Psychological Support. The event, organized under the NCW’s Health and Population Committee, brought together an influential group of women leaders, mental health professionals, and civil society partners to discuss the psychological challenges women face in today’s rapidly evolving world.
A Holistic Approach to Women’s Empowerment
Counselor Amal Ammar, NCW Chairperson, opened the session by emphasizing that true empowerment of women must include psychological and emotional well-being, not just economic or political participation. She praised the fruitful collaboration with Amb. Nabila Makram, Chairperson of the Fahim Foundation and Executive Chair of the National Alliance for Civil Development Work, for her steadfast advocacy of mental health awareness.
“Psychological empowerment is the missing piece in the full picture of women’s empowerment,” Justice Ammar stated. “At the National Council for Women, we recognize that a woman’s mental well-being is fundamental to her ability to contribute to her family, community, and nation.”
Ammar also underscored the NCW’s commitment to integrating mental health into its programs and initiatives, especially in light of the growing pressures faced by women and families amid global and societal transformations.
Facing Emotional Pressures in Today’s World
Amb. Nabila Makram echoed this sentiment, highlighting the intense emotional and psychological burdens many women shoulder daily—be it in their personal lives, workplaces, or communities.
“Women are constantly navigating pressures that demand unique support structures,” she said.
Scientific Insight: Depression and Stress Among Women
The keynote scientific address was delivered by Dr. Abdel Nasser Omar, Professor of Psychiatry at Ain Shams University, who presented a compelling overview of the psychological stressors impacting women, particularly the higher prevalence of depression among women compared to men.
Dr. Omar attributed this disparity to a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors, explaining the distinction between acute stress—triggered by sudden traumatic events—and chronic stress, which stems from prolonged pressure such as economic hardship or family strain.
He stressed the importance of community and family support, early intervention, and public awareness to prevent escalation into clinical mental health conditions.
Integrating Psychological Health into Women’s Lives
Dr. Salma Dowara, a member of the NCW and head of the Health and Population Committee, presented insights into the direct and indirect effects of psychological stress on women’s physical health, noting the interconnectedness of the five key health determinants: physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and economic.
She warned that imbalances in any of these areas can manifest in symptoms such as chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, or anxiety, and stressed the need for strategies of resilience, prevention, and healing.
Inclusive Audience, Meaningful Dialogue
The seminar drew a diverse audience, including religious leaders, nuns, female preachers, members of Equal Opportunity Units, representatives from Fahim Foundation, and delegates from NCW branches in Cairo, Giza, and Qalyubia. NCW members including Dr. Nasreen El-Baghdadi, Dr. Susan Al-Qallini, Ms. Zeina Tawkal, Ms. Layla Salem, Dr. Rasha Mahdi, and Ms. Ahood Wafi, participated actively in the dialogue.
Also in attendance were legal advisor Justice Mohamed Sweidan, retired General Rifaat Abu El-Qomsan, and several NCW leadership figures, staff, and health professionals.
The session featured rich discussions on the importance of social awareness, emotional intelligence, and mental health literacy as essential tools for women in navigating the complexities of modern life.
Honoring Mental Health Champions
At the close of the event, Justice Amal Ammar presented the Council’s “Ta’ Marbouta” Shield—a symbol of women’s strength and resilience—to Amb. Nabila Makram and Dr. Abdel Nasser Omar, in recognition of their outstanding efforts and contributions to advancing mental health awareness and supporting women across Egypt.
