Under the Patronage of HRH Princess Ghida Talal, KHCF and KHCC host the Mental Health and Cancer Forum
Amman, October 27, 2025: Under the patronage of HRH Princess Ghida Talal, Chairperson of the King Hussein Cancer Foundation (KHCF) and Center (KHCC), KHCF/KHCC hosted the Mental Health and Cancer Forum, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization.
The forum explored the importance of integrating mental health into treatment as an essential part of comprehensive care for cancer patients.
Princess Ghida said: "Today, we must reconsider the concept of holistic health care, and recognize that mental health is a public health issue that concerns every home and every individual, and that it is not a luxury we turn to only in times of crisis."
She added: "I pledge to remain steadfast in the fight against cancer, while equally championing the cause of mental health."
Minister of Health Dr. Ibrahim Al Bdour said: "Mental health is one of the fundamental pillars of building a complete and effective health system. It is not separate from physical health. It complements it and forms the basis of human balance, resilience, productivity, and contribution. We all know that psychological suffering, even when unseen, leaves deep effects on individuals, families, and communities, and influences development, the economy, and overall quality of life."
Al Bdour emphasized the Ministry of Health’s commitment, in cooperation with national and international partners, to taking serious steps toward integrating mental health services into the public health system to ensure that they are available to all citizens and contribute to early detection and timely support. He noted that the national mental health strategy has been updated in partnership with the World Health Organization. ,
World Health Organization Representative in Jordan Dr. Iman Shankiti said: "Mental health is not a luxury. It is a fundamental right for every human being. Through our continued partnership with the Government of Jordan, we work to ensure that mental health services are integrated across all levels of health care, making them accessible to every patient, every family, and in all circumstances, including crises and conflicts."
The forum included a panel discussion titled "Mental Health as a National Priority: Toward Supportive National Policies" in addition to a second session titled "Mental Health in the Journey of Treatment and Recovery in Times of Crisis: Regional Models." Participants discussed ways to advance national policies, strengthen partnerships, and expand psychosocial support services within the cancer care system.
Participants concluded with a set of recommendations focused on adopting a unified national model for integrated care that brings together physical and mental health, training specialized personnel, incorporating psychosocial support services into national health insurance, and ensuring equitable access to services.