This strategy is a roadmap spanning over a 7-year period, to guide the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) and all relevant stakeholders, to synergize
efforts towards improving mental health in Lebanon. Especially in our country context, improving mental health also requires addressing the social, economic, and political factors, all of which are determinants that negatively impact mental health and hinder recovery. The development of the strategy involved a comprehensive approach to address key questions. Firstly, an assessment of the country’s mental health landscape was conducted, encompassing burden of diseases and needs, and the current system available to respond to these needs, as well as review of efforts done so far to identify areas of action that require sustainment or enhancement. Furthermore, consultations with local experts and stakeholders including persons with lived experience were conducted to inform the strategy’s priorities. The strategy was also shaped by insights derived from international guidelines, including WHO guidelines and evidence-based recommendations. Special attention was given to selecting approaches that were contextually relevant and adaptable to the local context. Finally, the strategy was shared with the public for further input and refinement.
The strategy comprehensively addresses all building blocks of the mental health system to improve the overall mental health of individuals and prevent mental disorders, with a focus on the below key topics:
1. Ensure there is more awareness about mental health and less misconceptions, and that interventions that are proven to help in preventing mental ill health are increasingly adopted and implemented. This includes emphasizing the importance of addressing the political and socio-economic determinants of mental health.
2. Empower and equip individuals with the necessary resources, knowledge, skills, and support systems to protect their mental health and to access available services when needed.
3. Ensure that individuals with mental health conditions can access high-quality care as soon as they need it, regardless of their place of residence.
4. Support health care providers and all relevant professionals in doing their jobs, through evidence based capacity-building as well as through supporting them in safeguarding their own mental health.
5. Limit and prevent harmful practices during the provision of mental health services that violate human rights and quality principles.
6. Bolster the availability of data and the implementation of helpful research to inform and reinforce efforts aimed at enhancing mental health across the country.
7. Establish the appropriate legal frameworks, policies, and funding mechanisms to support the strengthening of the mental health system.
8. Integrate the views, perspectives, and preferences of persons with lived experience in the design and development of services and related policies and practices.
Each of these topics has specific actions planned to be implemented to make the needed improvements in the country.
