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Mental health Improvements for Nations Development: The WHO MIND Project
New joint WHO/Wonca report 'Integrating mental health into primary care - a global perspective'
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Read the report [pdf 4.03Mb]
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New Diploma on Mental Health, Human Rights and Legislation
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Towards concrete changes in people's daily lives
Mental and neurological disorders such as depression, schizophrenia, epilepsy and substance abuse, among others, cause immense suffering for those affected, amplify people's vulnerability and can lead individuals into a life of poverty.
Despite the worldwide availability of cost-effective treatments the vast majority of people are left without access to the treatment they need. Instead of getting the help and support they require to lead productive lives, many people are subject to stigma, discrimination and human rights violations and are denied the basic life opportunities given to other citizens.
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Mental health improvements are central to nations' development
By treating many of the debilitating mental disorders and by promoting mental health, people will experience major improvements in their lives. They will be able to work and rise out of poverty, provide their children with the right social and emotional environment to flourish, participate productively in community life, and contribute to the economy of their country. In order to achieve this, countries need to put in place human rights oriented mental health policies, strategic plans and laws to ensure that effective treatment, prevention and promotion programs are made available to all people who need them.
THE 4 CORE THEMATIC AREAS OF WHO MIND
ACTION IN COUNTRIES: Nations at Work
The ultimate goal of the World Health Organisation's work with countries is to reduce the treatment gap - allowing more people with mental disability to receive effective and humane treatment and care so that they and their families are able to live productive lives in the community.
In this web space, you will find examples of the excellent work being carried out in countries to improve the lives of people with mental disorders.
More on country work for mental health
MENTAL HEALTH POLICY, PLANNING & SERVICE DEVELOPMENT: Integration for better services
Mental health policy and action plans are important because they coordinate, through a common vision, all programmes and services related to mental health. Without this type of organization, mental disorders are likely to be treated in an inefficient and fragmented manner.
More on policies, plans and service development for mental health
MENTAL HEALTH, HUMAN RIGHTS & LEGISLATION: Denied citizens: Including the excluded
Too many people with mental disability are exposed to a wide range of human rights violations both within psychiatric institutions and in the community. Developing mental health legislation which respects human rights and setting up bodies to monitor human rights conditions in mental health facilities are two important steps towards stopping these violations.
More on legislation and human rights protection for mental health
MENTAL HEALTH, POVERTY & DEVELOPMENT: Mental health core to development
By treating and preventing mental disorders we can: reduce premature mortality; improve outcomes for many debilitating and chronic 'physical ' health problems; reduce violence and injuries; and improve social and economic development.
More on links between poverty, development & mental health
CONTACT DETAILS
Mental Health Policy and Service Development
Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, WHO Geneva.
- Dr Michelle Funk, coordinator: funkm@who.int
- Mrs Natalie Drew, technical officer: drewn@who.int
- Ms Adeline Loo, administrative officer: looa@who.int
- Tel: +41 (22) 791 38 55 ; Fax: +41 (22) 791 41 60
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