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WHO’s Special Initiative for Mental Health aims to ensure universal health coverage for people living with mental health conditions by working to increase access to quality and affordable care for mental health, neurological and substance use conditions for 100 million more people. The Special Initiative for Mental Health is advancing mental health policies, advocacy and human rights; and scaling up quality interventions and services for individuals with mental health, substance use and neurological conditions.
"Our commitment to WHO’s Special Initiative for Mental Health stems from SDCs awareness about the urgent need to address the global burden of mental health conditions, which affects 1 in 8 people. Despite this, 85% of those with mental disorders receive no treatment. This Initiative is bridging that gap in nine countries, providing access to mental health services to over 52 million people. At a cost of less than US$ 0.50 per person, this Initiative is demonstrating how modest investments can catalyse large-scale, national-level change to an underserved area of health care.”
Erika Placella, Head Health Section, Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC)
"This collaboration with WHO reflects our shared ambition to decentralise mental health care to ensure that these services and support are available to all,”
Dr Amma Boadu, Deputy Director for Mental Health at the Ghana Health Service
*Figures are likely higher - countries are only tracking service uptake in selected facilities
Posters
Overcoming mental health challenges
Watch the inspiring story of Ahmad Adileh from Jordan as he shares his journey of overcoming mental health challenges and the valuable lessons he's learned along the way:
Understanding barriers to mental health system transformation
Explore the intricate challenges of transforming global mental health systems in this insightful blog post. From enduring stigma to fragmented care, discover how efforts like WHO's Special Initiative for Mental Health are working to overcome barriers and drive meaningful change. Learn about the successes and setbacks faced in countries like Paraguay and Zimbabwe, and gain a deeper understanding of the varied approaches needed to achieve a future where mental health care is accessible, valued, and integrated.
A webinar with the MHIN - Reforming Mental Health Systems and Services: Lessons from WHO's Special Initiative for Mental Health
Learn key insights and strategies for transforming mental health care globally:
WHO Special Initiative for Mental Health - Frequently asked questions
Curious about WHO's Special Initiative for Mental Health? Check out our FAQ leaflet for quick answers to common questions and learn how the Special Initiative for Mental Health is making a global impact on mental health care.
All Health, Health for All - Investment case 2025-2028
Regional Updates
Strengthening Mental Health Services Across the Puna Region, Argentina
The Ministry of Health of Jujuy, supported by PAHO/WHO, has launched a new training program in La Quiaca as part of the Community Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP). This initiative aims to expand access to mental health services, promote prevention, and reduce stigma across the Puna region.
Breaking Barriers : Expanding Mental Health Services in Bangladesh
Overcoming stigma and lack of access to mental health services, Bangladesh’s health centers in Moner Bari, Moner Janala, and Ektu Golpo Kori in Jashore, Chapainawabganj, and Sylhet are revolutionizing primary care. With comprehensive services and training from the Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP), these centers are making mental health care accessible and affordable for over 7,000 people, setting a new standard for integrated health services.
Transforming Mental Health in Paraguay
Paraguay is making significant strides in mental health reform. With a new Mental Health Law, a National Mental Health Directorate, and community-based services, the country is shifting from centralized care to integrated, accessible mental health support. The WHO's Special Initiative for Mental Health has been instrumental in these changes, advocating for legal reforms and supporting the development of national policies. These efforts aim to improve mental health outcomes, reduce human rights abuses, and enhance overall well-being.
In line with WHOs 14th General Programme of Work (GPW14; 2025-2028), which features a target indicator to increase mental health services coverage, the WHO Special Initiative for Mental Health will begin its next strategic phase, to be known as “SIMH-2”. To implement SIMH-2 and expand support to additional countries, WHO is seeking more investors to contribute to this work.
For more information, please contact Alison Schafer (aschafer@who.int), Programmatic lead for the Special Initiative for Mental Health, or Dévora Kestel (kesteld@who.int), Director of the Mental Health and Substance Use (MSD).
