WHO/Europe is hosting a webinar to launch a new policy brief aimed at supporting countries in expanding access to mental health care through primary health care (PHC). As mental health needs grow across the Region, many health systems struggle with long wait times, limited specialist availability, and fragmented services. This new policy brief, “Scaling up mental health services within the primary health care approach: Lessons from the WHO European Region”, presents a strategic framework with four key approaches to strengthen mental health care at the community level. The webinar will explore how these strategies are already being implemented in countries and how they can be adapted to ensure more timely, equitable, and integrated mental health support within PHC systems.
Why does this matter?
Mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, continue to rise due to a multitude of social, economic, political and environmental factors. Despite the growing need, mental health care remains underfunded and specialized services are often inaccessible. Too often, people are left without support until their conditions worsen, increasing personal suffering and putting further strain on health systems.
Integrating mental health within a broader PHC approach ensures that support is available when and where people already seek care. Primary health care professionals are often the first point of contact for individuals struggling with mental health issues, yet many health systems lack the resources to provide the necessary support. This policy paper lays out clear strategies for making mental health services more accessible and equitable.
The new policy paper titled “Scaling up mental health services within the Primary Health Care approach: Lessons from the WHO European Region” provides a clear framework for governments and health systems to take action. It outlines four key strategies tested in various countries and adaptable across diverse health systems. The focus is on making mental health a core part of PHC by:
🔹 Scaling up the role of primary care professionals in mental health care
🔹 Expanding primary care teams by integrating trained staff in mental health
🔹 Strengthening connections between primary care and specialized mental health services
🔹 Building cross-sectoral collaborations with education, employment and social services
