Introduction

Abstract

Global mental health can be defined as “the area of study, research and practice that places a priority on improving mental health and achieving equity in mental health for all people worldwide”.The objectives of this global initiative cannot be achieved without ensuring implementation of human rights, eradication of poverty and social inequality, and securing equality across ethnicities and genders. Stigma related to mental illness is probably the main roadblock stopping the development of effective care for mental illness globally. Effectively promoting mental health implies creating a culture of knowledge about sociocultural paradigms, working locally and globally, promoting grassroots movements and recognizing differences and similarities across genders, cultures, societies, languages and ethnicities. This booklet is an extensive introduction delineating the main conceptual framework, challenges and current developments occurring in the field of global mental health and diversity. It is written by a range of outstanding experts, overcoming the challenges inherent to this field an a contributing worldwide to this global effort.