Hanoi:World Health Organisation The World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced a new guide aimed at helping countries transition from institutionalized mental health care, which depends on extended stays in psychiatric hospitals, to community-based, person-centered services that emphasize patients' rights and choices.
According to Emirates News Agency, many individuals with mental health conditions currently reside in large psychiatric hospitals and social care institutions, with nearly half being involuntarily confined for extended periods, ranging from months to decades, isolating them from society.
The process, known as deinstitutionalization (DI), seeks to assist individuals who have spent six months or more in psychiatric hospitals in reintegrating into their communities. This involves providing the necessary care, support, and opportunities for them to lead fulfilling lives.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasized that people should not have to sacrifice their freedom, dignity, or community ties to receive ongoing mental health support. He urged countries to move away from long-term institutional care and invest in community-based, rights-focused mental health services.
The new guide outlines practical steps for psychiatric hospital leaders to implement DI, such as reducing hospital admissions and long stays, changing institutional practices to protect patients' rights, and facilitating hospital discharge with adequate community support.
It stresses that DI is not solely the responsibility of hospitals and requires access to housing, healthcare, social support, education, employment opportunities, and family support to help individuals thrive in their communities.
While many countries are working to enhance community-based mental health services, progress varies significantly. WHO's Mental Health Atlas indicated that only 9 percent of reporting countries had fully transitioned to community-based care, while over half (53 percent) were in the early stages of reform. Additionally, more than one in four (28 percent) of those admitted to psychiatric hospitals remained for longer than six months.
The DI guide aligns with the theme of this year's World Mental Health Day, 'Lived experiences heard real voices, real change,' emphasizing the role of individuals with lived experience in shaping policies and services affecting their lives.