Development of a Toolkit for Implementing Mental Health Programs as Part of the Health System in Humanitarian Settings

Populations in humanitarian contexts are especially at risk for mental health conditions due to their exposure to violence, loss of homes, livelihoods, and loved ones, instability of community or social support systems, and damaged health infrastructure. Those with pre-existing and chronic mental issues are especially vulnerable in such contexts and need access to care. Despite the high need, the availability of appropriate and integrated mental health services remains a critical gap in low and middle-income countries. The integration of mental health care with general health care is a key strategy for closing this treatment gap. This approach is more sustainable, less stigmatizing, and more accessible through reaching larger segments of the population. Integration of mental health into primary health care and community services involves an assessment of the context and resources, engagement of relevant national and local stakeholders, and ongoing training, support, and supervision of healthcare staff and paraprofessionals to provide mental healthcare and psychosocial support. A toolkit for implementing integrated mental health programs as part of the health system in humanitarian settings is necessary to address the gap in mental health services. The toolkit will inform users about key components of integrated mental health programs and provide guidance on how to set up such programs in humanitarian settings, including urban and camp settings. International Medical Corps has been implementing programs integrating mental health into general health care for more than ten years in over 15 countries, and the toolkit will build on this experience. The development of the toolkit involves several steps, including a review of currently available mental health tools, resources, and guidelines, as well as existing toolkits from other technical program areas. A mapping of organizations currently implementing or planning to implement mental health primary health care integration programs will also be conducted. The toolkit framework and associated tools, resources, and materials will be developed with input from an Advisory Group, which includes the World Health Organization and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. The draft toolkit content and design will be reviewed and feedback will be sought from key humanitarian actors, followed by consultation meetings with target organizations and pilot-testing of the toolkit.