Investing in Mental Health

October 10 marks World Mental Health Day each year. Mental health professionals and advocates around the world raise awareness of mental health issues because of their vital importance to individuals and societies alike. The day was first observed in 1992 following an initiative by the World Federation for Mental Health.

This year, it was agreed that the main theme toward which efforts would be directed was “investing in mental health.” Although mental health programs have historically and chronically suffered from inadequate funding at both local and international levels, the need for this investment has become more urgent than ever because of the COVID-19 pandemic that spread from the beginning of the year and had a profound effect on the widespread occurrence of psychological problems and disorders in every area of life. Rory O'Connor, a researcher writing in The Lancet, said, “Increasing social isolation, loneliness, anxiety, stress, and financial hardship are powerful storms sweeping through people's mental health.” This is not far removed from our own experience.

Several studies have indicated that psychological disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression, occur in more than 50% of people who have recovered from the virus. Some major medical journals have also predicted the spread of psychological trauma symptoms among staff working with people affected by the pandemic.

Despite good intentions toward mental health, many low- and middle-income countries allocate no more than 2% of their health budgets to treating and preventing psychological disorders. This is not proportionate to the considerable burden caused by these disorders, as mental and neurological illnesses and substance use are among the main factors contributing to lower productivity, disrupted resources, and increased premature mortality worldwide.

In numerical terms, a recent study indicated that the cumulative global impact of psychological disorders through lost economic output will reach 16 trillion US dollars over the next 20 years. This current and projected burden of psychological disorders can alone be considered sufficient reason to invest in mental health.

Psychological intervention programs—such as early intervention for psychosis, suicide prevention, and educational programs for behavioral disorders—also produce positive economic returns. A study published by the World Health Organization reported that every US dollar invested in expanding treatment for depression and anxiety returns four US dollars in benefits resulting from improved health and capacity to work.

It is also important to emphasize that investment should not be limited to increasing financial budgets, resources, and material allocations for mental health facilities. It should also include building and diversifying workforce capacity and establishing multidisciplinary teams that include specialists in geriatric psychology, child psychology, psychometrics, vocational rehabilitation, speech, and addiction, as well as professionals from diverse schools of therapy.

Current circumstances also require investment in preparing telephone and internet services, as the future is moving decisively toward the electronic delivery of psychotherapy services. Suitable protocols must also be created to maintain confidentiality and ensure the quality of remotely delivered services. Training programs should be developed to prepare mental health professionals for this new form of therapy, alongside programs that support them and help prevent the burnout they may experience because of work pressure and new working tools.

It is worth noting that the results of investing in mental health may not be harvested quickly, but our dream of a better future requires patient perseverance.

Download the Tatmeen app for online psychological and family consultations from the Apple Store or Google Play. You can also register on the Tatmeen mental health website to access valuable information and practical tools for strengthening your mental and family well-being.