WHO Mental Health Guidelines
Overview
The World Health Organization publishes global mental health guidelines, most notably the mhGAP (Mental Health Gap) Intervention Guide, designed for use in low- and middle-income countries where specialist mental health resources are limited.
WHO mhGAP Guidelines
Conditions Covered
- Psychotic disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Depression
- Behavioral disorders (in children)
- PTSD
- Epilepsy
- Intellectual disability
- Delirium
- Dementia
- Self-harm and suicidal behavior
- Substance use disorders
- Eating disorders
Key Principles
- Task-shifting: Train non-specialists to deliver basic mental health care
- Essential interventions: Prioritize high-impact, evidence-based treatments
- Integration: Integrate mental health into primary care
- Human rights: Uphold dignity and rights of persons with mental disorders
- Cultural adaptation: Adapt interventions to local context
First-Line Interventions by Condition
| Condition | Recommended Intervention |
|---|---|
| Depression | Behavioral activation, problem-solving therapy |
| PTSD | Trauma-focused CBT (when available) |
| Psychosis | Antipsychotic medication + psychosocial support |
| Substance use | Brief intervention + referral (SBIRT model) |
| Self-harm | Safety planning + follow-up contact |
WHO Mental Health Atlas
The WHO Mental Health Atlas tracks global mental health resources, policies, and services across countries — essential for understanding global mental health disparities and resource allocation.
WHO Quality Rights Initiative
Focuses on improving the quality of mental health care while protecting human rights of persons with mental health conditions.
Source Metadata
- Type: Guideline overview
- Primary source: WHO mhGAP Intervention Guide (v2.0, 2023); WHO Mental Health Atlas
- Updated: 2025