Each informant was asked via e-mail to provide the national mental health policy or plan the corresponding evaluation plan (if existing/available), and any regional mental health policies or plans and corresponding evaluation plans. In the present study, we aimed to map and analyze evidence on the existence, implementation and evaluation of mental healthcare plans and policies in the European region, while also reviewing their content. Countries are increasingly launching national mental health plans, policies or strategies, however, their content has not been systematically analyzed, and it is unclear to what extent they are in line with the WHO policy as well as to what extent they are implemented. Guidance on policy and strategic actions for mental health and the social protection sector provides policy directives and strategic actions to address poverty, inequality, and exclusion through income support, housing, inclusive benefits, and combined social care and mental health programmes. Over 50% of these adults did not receive any mental health services for these disorders in the previous year—only a fraction of which employed behavioral health strategies .
Overview of current actions and tools:
Ultimately, investing in prevention is key to building a healthier and more resilient society . By expanding access to mental health resources, we can empower individuals to take proactive steps toward mental wellness, improving overall public health and creating stronger, more resilient communities . For global access, 7 Cups offers free online therapy and peer support, while Better-Help and Talk-space provide affordable online therapy services. Investing in mental health initiatives not only benefits individual employees but also strengthens the organization’s overall performance by promoting a positive and balanced work environment . As a result, they play a vital role in preventing mental health issues and promoting overall well-being . By fostering environments that prioritize social support and community engagement, individuals are more likely to feel valued and connected.
EU support package on stigma and discrimination
Mental health policies and plans (MHPPs) are important policy instruments and powerful tools to facilitate development of mental health systems and services across the world. The WHO-AIMS (WHO’s Assessment Instrument for Mental Health Systems) Version 2.2 and the WHO Checklist for Mental Health Policy were the only two internationally recognized evaluation instruments related to mental health policies, but they focus on policy content and formulation 107, 108. By involving senior leadership across countries, training the healthworkforce and rolling-out new mental health services—the WHO Special Initiativefor Mental Health has placed a spotlight on this often-neglected area of publichealth and supported countries to take action. Supporting policies that promote mental health awareness, funding for mental health services, and protections for individuals with mental health disorders can create a more supportive environment for mental well-being. Key reform areas, directives, strategies, and actions for mental health policy & strategic action plans It highlights mental health’s connection to social and structural determinants—such as poverty, housing, education, and employment—offering actionable strategies to address these, combat stigma and discrimination, and expand access to care.
Learn more about our research areas, policies, resources, and initiatives. Learn more about how to participate in outpatient and inpatient studies at the NIH Clinical Center, a hospital dedicated to the highest quality research. Search for jobs, including scientific, administrative and executive careers at NIMH. The latest information and resources on mental disorders shared on X, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Explore NIMH research training and career development opportunities. Find the latest NIH and NIMH policies, guidance, and resources for clinical research.
- By addressing the social determinants of mental health, we can move toward sustainable solutions that improve overall well-being and reduce the burden of mental health disorders on individuals and society.
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- This seems to be especially important in the context of central and eastern Europe, a region characterized by a lack of evaluation culture which in turn increases the risks of scarce resources being spent ineffectively.
- In bill language, these terms are often used to demarcate the need for using or supporting the use of such “evidence-based” strategies.
Guidance On Mental Health Policy and Strategic Action Plans WHO
Quantitative tools included self-reported surveys (e.g., to measure knowledge by health workers about the content of mental health policy). Two studies used a theoretical framework on drivers and constraints that affect policy development and implementation as a conceptual background to the methodology to guide evaluation. Two studies specifically looked at policies centred around the service development process (Stanley-Clarke et al., Reference Stanley-Clarke, Sanders and Munford2014) and the introduction of a new model of care (Park et al., Reference Park, Lencucha, Mattingly, IHS California Behavioral Health Resources Zafran and Kirmayer2015). Of these, 16 assessed only the implementation process; seven studies provided an assessment of the implementation process combined with an evaluation of the progress or impact of implementation and four studies assessed all three (progress, process, impact).
Digital platforms and telehealth services may also enhance outreach, making mental health resources more accessible. Additionally, fostering social connections through community initiatives can mitigate feelings of isolation and create environments that support emotional health. By identifying and supporting vulnerable individuals early, these programs aim to reduce the prevalence and impact of conditions such as anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders.
Twenty-three were single-country studies and four evaluated more than one country. Only nine studies provided details on the content of their tools, of which two provided their interview and focus group guide templates in the Supplementary Materials (Doku et al., Reference Doku, Ofori-Atta, Akpalu, Read, Osei, Ae-Ngibise, Awenva, Lund, Flisher, Petersen, Bhana, Bird, Drew, Faydi, Funk, Green and Omar2008; Draper et al., Reference Draper, Lund, Kleintjes, Funk, Omar and Flisher2009). With the exception of one, all studies used surveys that were specially designed ad hoc self-administered questionnaires, with the WHO-AIMS Instrument and Survey Checklist being the only standardised tool used (Mwanza et al., Reference Mwanza, Sikwese, Mwanza, Mayeya, Lund, Bird, Drew, Faydi, Funk and Green2008). Various methods were employed to measure progress of implementation. Assessment of existence was expressed in qualitative or survey questions on whether any implementation activities were carried out. Only three studies presented results of assessment of entire MHPPs (Australian Health Ministers Advisory Council, 1997; Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, 2012; Loukidou et al., Reference Loukidou, Mastroyannakis, Power, Thornicroft, Craig and Bouras2013).