Future Mental Wellness: Strategies for a Happier Tomorrow
In the small Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, an impressive 32.6% of the population reported being extensively happy, with 8.3% reporting deep happiness. This finding is significant, especially considering Bhutan's unique approach to measuring progress, with the Gross National Happiness Index prioritizing psychological wellbeing since the 1970s [1].
Meanwhile, on a global scale, mental health has been identified as a basic human right by the World Health Organization (WHO). This recognition forms the backbone of various international strategies aimed at improving mental health statistics and reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues.
One such strategy is the emphasis on early intervention, particularly for youth. The WHO highlights that half of all mental health conditions begin by age 14, yet many cases go undiagnosed and untreated. To address this, the 2025 global mental health agenda prioritizes early intervention in schools and communities, with a focus on personalized and proactive approaches to mental wellness [1].
Another strategy is the integration of mental health into primary care systems, especially in underserved and low- and middle-income countries. Training programs for family medicine practitioners include mental health care competencies, aiming to bridge service gaps where specialists are scarce [2].
The utilization of technology is another key strategy. Digital tools such as telepsychiatry, mobile health applications, and online therapy platforms are increasingly used to reach remote and underserved populations worldwide, improving accessibility and continuity of care [2][3].
Incorporating the lived experience of individuals with mental health issues is also a crucial aspect of these initiatives. WHO Europe's 2025 roadmap advocates embedding the expertise of these individuals in policy-making, service design, and delivery, with the goal of improving mental health systems' inclusivity and effectiveness [3].
Regional action plans, such as the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)'s "A New Agenda for Mental Health in the Americas," provide evidence-based policy recommendations and strategies to improve mental health care in post-pandemic recovery [4].
Capacity building and suicide prevention are also integral parts of these initiatives. Movements such as Mental Health First Aid International have expanded to 35 countries to build community capacity for early identification and support of mental health crises and suicide prevention [5].
In the UK, mental health concerns are a pressing issue. Between 2019 and 2021, 20-30% of adults reported experiencing significant psychological distress. Certain groups, such as black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) communities, have higher rates of mental health concerns compared to other population groups [6].
However, there's hope. Enjoying time spent in nature has a positive effect on mental health, with Switzerland being known for its natural beauty and 70% of the population enjoying time spent in nature. Similarly, the Finns live by the term "sisu" which means resilience and determination during difficult situations, a concept that can promote mental wellbeing by maintaining a positive outlook and treating failures as learning opportunities.
Organizations like Beyond Blue in Australia support individuals with serious mental health issues like depression and anxiety, offering various ways of contact, resources, school-based programs, and training guides.
Even in the face of challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, which increased the prevalence of anxiety and depression by 25%, these initiatives represent a global shift toward more proactive, inclusive, and evidence-driven mental health care frameworks aimed at improving mental health outcomes worldwide.
References:
[1] World Health Organization (2021). Mental Health in Schools: A Global Perspective. [2] World Health Organization (2020). Integrating mental health into primary health care: a call to action. [3] World Health Organization (2020). European Roadmap for Mental Health and Wellbeing 2021-2030. [4] Pan American Health Organization (2021). A New Agenda for Mental Health in the Americas. [5] Mental Health First Aid International. Accessed on 1st May 2023. https://mhfa.com/ [6] Mental Health Foundation (2022). Mental Health Statistics. Accessed on 1st May 2023. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/statistics/mental-health-statistics
- In line with the World Health Organization's recognition of mental health as a fundamental human right, the global mental health agenda is prioritizing science-based strategies to improve mental health outcomes, such as early intervention in schools and communities, integrating mental health into primary care systems, and leveraging technology to reach remote populations.
- The emphasis on mental health and wellness in unconventional settings like Bhutan, with its Gross National Happiness Index, serves as a model for incorporating mental health care into broader health and wellness initiatives on a global scale, demonstrating the synergy between science and mental health.
