Delivery of Mental Health Services in Bhutan: Challenges and Way Forward

Bhutan is known for its developmental philosophy of Gross National Happiness. Bhutan introduced mental health services in 1997 with the launch of Mental Health Program. Mental health includes psychological, emotional, and social well-being. The Department of Psychiatry, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in the capital city Thimphu is the only psychiatric unit providing specialized mental health services in Bhutan. The psychiatric unit consists of multidisciplinary team rendering both out- and in-patient mental health services. However, mental health services were gradually integrated in district hospitals, Primary Healthcare Centres and in schools. Although mental health services are an essential component of the healthcare system, the system faces numerous difficulties. Inaccessibility to mental health services due to geographical location and inadequate mental health professionals poses challenges in addressing mental health issues. Mental health issues are perceived differently, and the people with mental health issues often suffer from stigmatization creating barriers in seeking mental health services. Therefore, misconception and stigma associated to mental illness also cause greater challenges in delivering mental health services. Mental health funding has been substantially lower than the World Health Organization recommended mental health budget, amounting to 1% of health budget. Inadequate mental health funding remained a serious concern for the last few decades. Adequate mental health funding is vital in expanding the overall Mental Health Program and improving both the quality and quantity of mental health professionals. Additionally, enhancing community mental health initiatives will reinforce mental health services. Furthermore, there is a need for advancements in evidence and mental health research to support evidence-based practices and enhance mental health literacy.