London, UK — Just recently, a poignant workshop unfolded at the Harrow & Wealdstone Library, bringing together Somali families to engage in a subject that often lingers in the shadows: autism. This gathering, a rare opportunity for discourse, was spearheaded by the esteemed psychiatrist Dr. A. Fido, whose extensive experience in the field has made him a beacon of knowledge and understanding.
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Entitled “Autism Assessment, Early Intervention, Diagnosis, and Treatment,” the session offered a much-needed environment for learning and dialogue within the Somali community. Here, cultural stigma and limited access have historically hampered engagement with neurodevelopmental care. The workshop provided a much-needed break from that trend, creating a space where families could voice their concerns and ask questions without fear or hesitation.
Dr. Fido, who has dedicated more than 40 years to this critical area of mental health, previously chaired the Department of Psychiatry at Kuwait University. Now operating as a consultant psychiatrist for the NHS, he brought a wealth of clinical and cross-cultural expertise to the table. “Autism is often misunderstood, especially in the Somali community, where awareness is still developing,” he remarked during the session. “When parents can recognize the early signs and grasp the type of support available, it transforms outcomes—not just for the child but for the entire family.”
This insight struck a chord with many attendees, leading some to reflect on their own experiences. One father shared a stirring anecdote about his journey: “I didn’t know what to look for when my son started showing signs of withdrawal. I thought it was just a phase. Realizing it was more than that was a wake-up call.” Such stories underscore the necessity for community engagement and education around autism, particularly in underrepresented populations.
The workshop was part of the Hayaan Somali Mental Health Project, an initiative that has been specifically crafted to meet the cultural and linguistic needs of Somali residents. Launched earlier this year with crucial funding from the Reaching Communities National Lottery Fund, Hayaan provides one-on-one casework support, monthly mental health workshops, and culturally sensitive Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) training.
Initially, the project faced imminent closure in August 2024 due to funding issues, which would have left a significant gap in services for Harrow’s Somali population—an area that already grapples with barriers to accessing mainstream mental health care. The revival of Hayaan, however, signifies not just a restoration of services but a reaffirmation of commitment to ensure that no one is left behind.
One participant noted, “Today felt different. I walked in with questions and hesitations but left feeling empowered. It was as if a heavy weight had lifted.” Such sentiments were echoed throughout the room, suggesting that the workshop’s impact extended far beyond the information shared; it fostered a sense of community and mutual understanding.
Looking ahead, the Hayaan project is set to continue through December 2029, with programming fine-tuned to meet the distinct cultural and linguistic requirements of its constituents. The ongoing workshops aim to build trust and knowledge around mental health, ultimately encouraging the community to be proactive about their well-being.
If you or someone you know seeks information about future workshops or requires access to support services, don’t hesitate to reach out to Mind in Harrow at [email protected] or give them a call at 020 8426 0929. Community members are strongly encouraged to participate—your voice matters, and your journey towards understanding can inspire others.
In a world where the complexities of mental health can often feel isolating, community dialog and education serve as vital lifelines. Remember, it is through understanding, seeking help, and opening up that healing can begin. As Dr. Fido so aptly put it, engaging with these topics can transform not just individual lives but the fabric of the community itself.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
