Mental Health Crisis in Nepal: 80% Lack Access to Care
Summary
Nepal’s mental health system is reaching a crisis point, with officials saying 80 percent of citizens still lack access to needed treatment. Health authorities are urging higher government investment and stronger coordination to cut suicide rates and expand community-based services.
Key Points
- Acting Director General Dr. Krishnaprasad Poudel said 80 percent of Nepalis are not receiving needed mental health treatment services.
- He said about 10 percent of the population has some form of mental health problem, while 5.2 percent of adolescents are affected.
- Nepal records an estimated 7,200 suicides a year, and the country must sharply reduce the rate to meet Sustainable Development Goals.
- Low government health spending and weak implementation of the Health Financing Strategy are limiting mental health programs.
