SPHC Myanmar - a step towards revitalization of Mental Health Policy

Mental health is an integral part of health. Every individual who need services has the right to access mental health services.  The magnitude and burden of mental health issues in Myanmar has been a cause of concern since long time. Alma Ata Declaration, 1978 emphasises essential health care made accessible at a cost a country and community can afford, with methods that are practical, scientifically sound and socially acceptable. This approach is organised to reduce exclusion and social disparities in health, is people-centred, intersectoral, collaborative, and promotes the participation of all stakeholders. At present there are evidence for a range of cost-effective interventions for mental health available globally.  Countries have been using these available evidences to improve mental health policies across the world. Myanmar has a mental health policy that was incorporated into the National Health Policy document. It was revised in 1995 and its latest revision was in 2006.  In Myanmar, mental health services never evolved or developed to be in line with international standards. 

The project “Strengthening public health capacity to respond to Myanmar’s disease transition” was funded by European Union and implemented by HelpAge International in the beginning of 2015 in collaboration with the University of Public Health (UPH), University of Medicine 2 (UM2) Myanmar and Faculty of Public Health, Thammasat University, Thailand. It aims to strengthen the above health institutions and other health stakeholders in Myanmar to support evidence-based public health policy and improved health services for the prevention and control of NCDs.  HelpAge International have supported the Mental Health Society, Myanmar on revitalization of current mental health policy of the country that was revised in 2006.  However, this policy has failed to adequately protect and promote mental health, there being sever gaps in the expertise and resources dedicated to mental health services.  It is important to support governments to adopt and periodic revision of mental health policies.  As mental disorder causes a heavy burden for societies, impedes the development of other health and development targets, contributes to poverty and affects the poor.  An evidence based mental policy is required for a country like Myanmar which is currently undergoing demographic and epidemiological transition.  In order for mental health to be considered a health care priority going forwards, it is paramount that a revised, and a separate policy instrument is developed. This policy will open up a dialogue on mental health between stakeholders and the government and will build a holistic framework that can be implemented to tackle mental health problems through the expansion of services. HelpAge have so far supported this revision through facilitating two consultations. These workshops have brought together stakeholders, policymakers and mental health experts to collaborate on the revision of a mental health policy. Through these discussions a draft has been constructed in line with the country’s changing environment and growing mental health care needs. Once implemented this policy will be a fundamental tool for the protection of the mental health and wellbeing in Myanmar.