The World Health Organization (WHO) has released new guidance to help countries reform and enhance their mental health policies and systems. In a statement on Wednesday, WHO emphasized that mental health services worldwide remain underfunded, with significant gaps in both access and quality of care. The organization revealed that in some countries, up to 90% of individuals with severe mental health conditions receive no care at all.
WHO also noted that many existing services rely on outdated institutional models that fail to meet international human rights standards. Related Stories US funding cuts threaten global progress in battle against tuberculosis – WHO warns Why more Nigerian women are opting for C-Section despite rising cost According to WHO, the new guidance provides a framework for transforming mental health services, ensuring they are evidence-based, aligned with human rights standards, and accessible to all. WHO Director-General, Dr.
Tedros Ghebreyesus, emphasized that despite growing demand, quality mental health services remain inaccessible to many. He stated, “This new guidance equips governments with the tools to promote and protect mental health, ensuring systems that serve everyone.” Ghebreyesus noted that despite the availability of effective prevention and treatment methods, most people with mental health conditions still lack access to care.
He emphasized that the new guidance aligns mental health policies and services with international human right.
