active· Health

Strengthening and Expanding the Community Model of Mental Health Care in Nepal

Prevalence of mental health disorders is high in rural parts of Nepal and access to mental health services can be very limited due to challenges in awareness recognition and treatment options. The project aims to promote mental health and increase access t o mental health services in public health network within the districts of Lamjung and Dhading. Specific aims are to 1) promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma related to problems with mental health 2) increase accessibility and effectiveness of m ental health treatment in government health facilities and 3) empower community and people with mental disorders to advocate their rights and better access to treatment. The focus is on strengthening primary level outpatient treatment in line with WHO's re commendations and Nepal's National Mental Health Policy of 2017. The project implements a similar model that was previously adapted to Dang district. The model is based on strengthening already existing public health structures from health posts to special ized psychiatric hospitals by training health workers already publicly employed to recognize refer and treat mental health issues as well as raising citizens? awareness through workshops and advocacy. Local and district level mental health groups are estab lished to promote the rights of mentally ill people and enable citizens participation in decision making. Public health network is engaged in project activities and meetings to ensure continuity of mental health services after end of the project. Lastly me ntal health workshops are held for migrant workers in Kathmandu in collaboration with SASK. A qualitative study will be conducted to understand factors impacting migrant workers? mental health.