The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued new guidelines urging all countries to restructure and strengthen their mental health policies and systems. In a global context where mental health services remain deficient in many places, the WHO highlights the urgent need to transform these systems to provide quality care to all people.
Global challenges
Despite growing demand, mental health services worldwide remain underfunded. In some countries, up to 90% of people with serious mental illnesses receive no care at all. Furthermore, many existing services are based on outdated institutional models that fall short of international human rights standards. WHO emphasizes that more inclusive and adaptive approaches are needed to improve the quality and access to these services.
New guidelines to improve care
The new WHO guidelines advocate for a comprehensive approach to mental health care. They emphasize the importance of protecting human rights and ensuring that mental health policies and services comply with international standards. They also highlight the need to address social and economic factors that influence mental health, such as employment, housing, and education. The WHO calls for the implementation of preventive strategies and the promotion of mental well-being for the entire population.
Five critical areas for transformation
To achieve these changes, the WHO proposes redefining five key policy areas in mental health: leadership and governance, service organization, staff training, person-centered interventions, and the social and structural determinants of mental health. According to the WHO, it is essential that mental health services be flexible and aligned with national needs and local conditions.
A personalized approach according to the context
The new guidance also offers countries practical steps to develop more inclusive and resilient mental health systems. Dr. Michelle Funk, Chief of the Policy, Law and Human Rights Unit at WHO, explained that these guidelines are designed to be applied according to each country's specific context and needs. "These measures can be adapted to different income levels and care approaches, making them relevant for resource-limited countries," she said.
Global commitment
The WHO has worked with experts, policymakers, and individuals with expertise in mental health to develop these guidelines. The goal is to promote a person-centered model of care that guarantees the rights and well-being of all individuals. Furthermore, the organization is committed to providing technical assistance and resources to help countries implement these guidelines.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized: “Despite growing demand, many people still lack access to quality mental health services. These new guidelines provide governments with crucial tools to transform mental health care and ensure the well-being of all populations.”
