Developing mental health support programs: Social services programs
Keywords:
Mental health, prevention, promotion, low- and middle-income countries, digital interventions, community engagementAbstract
Aim: This article examines the development and implementation of mental health support programs, particularly focusing on prevention and promotion strategies to address the rising incidence of mental disorders globally. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted to assess the effectiveness of various mental health promotion and prevention interventions. The review included studies from high-income countries (HICs) and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), evaluating their applicability and outcomes. Results: Evidence suggests that effective mental health support programs are crucial for reducing the burden of mental disorders. Preventive strategies, such as universal, selective, and indicated interventions, have demonstrated effectiveness in promoting mental health and preventing disorders across different populations, including adolescents and the elderly. Innovations in digital technology, such as internet- and mobile-based interventions, have also shown promise in increasing accessibility. Conclusion: The need for culturally appropriate and resource-sensitive mental health promotion strategies is paramount, especially in LMICs, where the treatment gap is significant. Future research should focus on personalizing interventions, enhancing mental health literacy, and integrating community involvement to optimize the delivery of mental health services.
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