USAID’s Mental Health Position Paper

USAID has long supported initiatives that increase access to mental health services. The Agency now elevates this commitment with the USAID’s Mental Health Position Paper. The policy document strongly emphasises the social determinants of mental health and commits to integrating mental health across all its programs as an intersectional priority.  

At its core, the paper underscores the importance of creating sustainable enabling environments that actively support mental health initiatives. It also highlights the need for contextually-appropriate approaches to ensure interventions are tailored to the unique needs of the populations they serve. Additionally, the paper addresses key barriers to effective programming, including mental health stigma, lack of resources, and systemic inequities.

This document is the result of over two years of collaborative work and input from nearly 200 participants, representing a wide range of geographic, thematic, professional, and experiential perspectives.

Mental health remains one of the most overlooked health concerns in many countries, and this paper signals USAID’s commitment to advancing mental health globally. By setting clear priorities and a framework for action, it lays the groundwork for further research, funding, and collaboration aimed at addressing mental health challenges worldwide.

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