Financing mental health in lowand middle-income countries: Making an economic case to support investment

Abstract

This chapter provides a brief overview of the current level of funding for mental health within low- and middle-income countries. It then looks at the principal financing mechanisms used for funding in low- and middle-income countries and their implications for equity, efficiency, and sustainability at a time when a common goal is universal access to healthcare across the globe. The chapter provides some examples of approaches to funding mental health in different contexts and considers the role that can be played by aid from international donors in supporting the development of mental health services and supports. In making the case for investment, it also is important to look beyond mental health outcomes. Health policymakers and service providers may be more interested in the impacts on physical rather than mental health, whereas in other cases it will be valuable to identify non-health benefits and, if possible, attach a plausible value to these benefits.