Evaluating Pakistan's Mental Healthcare System Using World Health Organization's Assessment Instrument for Mental Health System (WHO-AIMS)

Abstract

Background: Pakistan is confronted with significant mental health challenges, which necessitate the urgent need for a comprehensive assessment of its mental healthcare system. A holistic understanding of the mental health landscape is essential to identify strengths, weaknesses, and existing gaps within the system, which can inform targeted interventions and policy enhancements to improve mental healthcare delivery and accessibility. Objective: The primary objective of this study is to conduct an in-depth analysis of Pakistan's mental healthcare system across various dimensions, guided by the World Health Organization's Assessment Tool for Mental Health Systems (WHO-AIMS). Methods: Data for this study wereobtained through desk research, including an examination of existing policies and legislation, and consultations with various health facilities across Pakistan. This comprehensive analysis focused on six domains within the WHO-AIMS framework: (1) policy and legislation, (2) mental health services, (3) integration of mental health into primary care, (4) public awareness and collaboration with other sectors, (5) human resources, and (6) monitoring and research initiatives. Results: The findings from our analysis revealed valuable insights within the six domains. We identified areas of strength and opportunities for improvement in Pakistan's mental healthcare system. These insights serve as the foundation for revising and updating national priorities for mental healthcare delivery and advocacy efforts. Key areas of focus include enhancing policy and legislation, expanding access to mental health services, improving existing initiatives for better integration of mental health into primary care, improving public awareness and public-private partnership, addressing human resource challenges, and strengthening monitoring and research initiatives. Conclusion: This study provides a roadmap for refining and enhancing Pakistan's mental health ecosystem and informs the prioritization of mental health campaigning efforts. Ultimately, our study contributes to ongoing efforts to improve mental healthcare accessibility and quality in Pakistan.