The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on the mental health of millions of people across the Western Pacific Region and around the world.
More than 100 million people suffer from mental health disorders in the Western Pacific Region. For many people, getting the support they need is difficult.
To support people’s mental health, WHO and partner organizations United for Global Mental Health and the World Federation for Mental Health, is calling for a massive scale-up in investment in mental health. In some countries in the Western Pacific Region, annual spending on mental health is less than US$ 0.25 per person. But spending on mental health can result in fivefold returns in improved health and productivity when the right investments are made.
For many people, it is challenging to adapt to the new realities of working from home, temporary unemployment, home-schooling of children, and lack of physical contact with other family members, friends and colleagues. Added to this comes managing the fear of contracting the virus and worry about people close to us who are particularly vulnerable. Recognizing that this situation can be particularly difficult for people with mental health conditions, WHO has issued:
- Considerations to support mental and psychological well-being during the pandemic
- Interim guidance for strengthening mental health and psychosocial support in the Western Pacific Region,
- Tips and advice for maintaining mental health while at home during movement restrictions, and
- Messages and infographics targeted at people in the region.
WHO thanks all donors and partners who have contributed to fund the Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan to combat COVID-19. A special appreciation goes to Member States and other contributors who provided flexible funds, making it possible for WHO to deliver a coherent, strategic and broad response.