Mental health experts have urged for improving access to care and treatment for mental, neurological and substance use (MNS) disorders across the world. The appeal was made after the Grand Challenges in Global Mental Health Initiative, led by the National Institutes of Health and the Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases, identified 40 barriers to better mental health around the world.

Thomas R. Insel, M. D., Director of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the NIH institute heading this effort, said, “Participating in global mental health research is an enormous opportunity, a means to accelerate advances in mental health care for the diverse U. S. population, and an extension of our vision of a world where mental illnesses are prevented and cured”.

Pamela Collins, M. D., M. P. H., of the NIMH Office for Research on Disparities and Global Mental Health said that providing better access to mental health care will have long term benefits for the people and also for the health care industry.

The authorities must consider reducing the cost and improving the supply of effective medications for mental health patients. She also said that they must also provide effective and affordable community-based care and rehabilitation.