More than one billion people worldwide are now living with mental health conditions. This rising figure highlights an urgent need for a global mental health services scale up, according to the latest World Health Organization (WHO) reports. Without significant investment and reform, millions will continue to face untreated mental health issues and their far reaching consequences.
Why a Global Mental Health Services Scale Up Matters
Mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression and psychosis, have become one of the leading causes of long-term disability across all age groups. The WHO findings reveal that governments spend only about two per cent of total health budgets on mental health, and in low income countries this drops to as little as US$0.04 per person. This severe underfunding limits access to community based care, qualified professionals and evidence-based treatments.
Current Progress and Ongoing Gaps in Mental Health Care
Some progress has been made. More countries are integrating mental health into primary care and adopting rights based policies. Tele health and psychosocial support have expanded in emergencies. However, less than ten percent of countries have fully shifted to community-based care. Many still rely heavily on psychiatric hospitals, with long stays and frequent involuntary admissions.
How Better Health Assessments Support Global Mental Health
Timely, comprehensive health assessments can play a vital role in identifying and managing mental health conditions. At First Health Check, we provide comprehensive health assessments that offer early insights into physical and mental wellbeing. These assessments enable individuals to seek help sooner and reduce the burden of untreated conditions.
The Economic and Social Cost of Inaction
Untreated mental health disorders cost the global economy billions in lost productivity and increased healthcare expenses. Scaling up mental health services, investing in workforce training and expanding access to community based care are essential steps to reverse these trends.
Join the Movement Towards Better Mental Health Worldwide
With over a billion people affected, the call to action is clear: governments, organisations and individuals must work together to scale up global mental health services. By prioritising early detection through our health assessments and promoting evidence based care, we can create a healthier future for all.
