Development of Rural Mental Health in Bangladesh

Abstract

Most of the people of Bangladesh live in rural area, and it has good health indicator and economic growth. But the burden of mental disorders in rural areas is huge with limited resources and mental health professionals. A substantial proportion of persons suffering from mental disorders do not get medical treatment in time where availability of service is not the main reason. Bangladesh is renowned for its primary health-care network, and more than 13,000 community clinics are functioning (one clinic for 6000 rural population) at present. So, integration of mental health service into primary care with community-based approach and effective referral linkage with specialized and other tier-specific health services would be the key strategy for the development of effective rural mental health service. The current fourth Five Year Health Sector Program (2016–2021) entitled “Health, Nutrition and Population Sector Strategic Investment Plan (HNPSIP)” with Essential Service Package (ESP) adopted by the Bangladesh government created a new hope for mental health including rural mental health. Newer mental health programs with provision of basic capacity for identification and management of mental disorders have been incorporated. But more effort should be put on preventive and promotive service on mental health. Besides, for expansion of service, new allocation of resources and capacity development are essential. Awareness and anti-stigma campaign is important to successful service development. The development of organized and effective rural mental health service should be prioritized for a better future of the nation.