Deinstitutionalise mental health care, strengthen community-based services: Saima Wazed

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Tuesday called on countries in WHO South-East Asia region to prioritise transition from long-stay institutional mental health services to community-based care, to ensure these services are accessible, equitable, and stigma-free.

"Transitioning from long-stay tertiary psychiatric institutions to community-based care is beneficial for both individuals and society at large," said Saima Wazed, regional director of WHO South-East Asia.

"When these services are integrated into the fabric of our communities, it becomes easier for individuals to seek help without the fear of judgment or discrimination," she said. 

"This shift also allows for greater personal autonomy, improved quality of life, and personalised care options. The community-based settings provide individuals opportunities to regain a sense of independence and engage in social and vocational activities, which can significantly improve their overall well-being," said Saima in her virtual address to the regional meeting on "Transitioning from long-stay services to community mental health networks: Towards deinstitutionalisation in WHO South-East Asia Region".

An estimated 13.7% of the population of the region suffers from mental health conditions. 

The treatment gap for mental health conditions remains high – as high as 95%. More than 2,00,000 people die of suicide every year. 

People with severe mental disorders die 10 to 20 years earlier than others. However, investment in mental health remains very low across the Region.

The regional director released a report on "Deinstitutionalisation of people with mental health conditions in WHO South-East Asia Region", which while acknowledging the complexities and unique contexts of each country, offers recommendations that can be adapted to local realities.

"This report can serve as a catalyst for change, igniting a process that results in every person leading a life of dignity, purpose, and fulfilment," said Saima, who champions the cause of mental health and has set it as one of her top priorities as regional director.

Long-stay mental health institutions, including psychiatric hospitals and asylums, are often characterised by the absence of effective treatment, segregation, poor living conditions, lack of resources, and overcrowding. 

The transition from institutional care to community-based care is driven by a growing understanding of the negative impact of long-term institutionalisation, advances in treatments, and recognition of the human rights and dignity of individuals with mental disorders.

"Historically mental health care has been synonymous with institutionalisation. Large asylums were built with the intention of providing a place of refuge for those grappling with mental illnesses. However, as our understanding of mental health has evolved, so too must our methods of care," the regional director said