Written By: Winnie Mitchell, International Officer, SAMHSA 

At the May 21-26 World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva, Switzerland, SAMHSA Administrator, Pam Hyde, gave the U.S. statement in favor of a historic resolution on “The Global Burden of Mental Disorders” and the need for a comprehensive, coordinated response from health and social sectors at the country level that was enacted by the technical committee with only two minor amendments.  The resolution went on to the full Assembly where it passed without opposition.

Over thirty countries joined Administrator Hyde in stating support for the resolution, which urges member States to develop comprehensive policies and strategies to address “the promotion of mental health, the prevention of mental disorders and early identification and care, support, treatment and recovery of persons with mental disorders.”  It also calls upon the World Health Organization (WHO) to develop a comprehensive mental health action plan “in consultation with Member States.”

Administrator Hyde mentioned the impact of trauma on mental health status and conditions as well as on physical health.  Mongolia noted dramatic increases in youth suicide due to “increasing inequity in wealth distribution and associated bullying,” and the Marshall Islands was joined by several other Member States in emphasizing the role of families in addressing mental disorders and supporting recovery.  Many states noted the issue of suicide and the importance of the role of prevention.  It is good to see world health leaders paying attention to behavioral health as a critical part of health.

In addition to the resolution, there was also a historic panel on opioid overdose mortality prevention, led by the United States and focusing on the use of naloxone to reverse the potentiall fatal effects of prescription or illicit opioid overdoses.  Administrator Hyde presented along with a health official from Estonia and the head of the Harm Reduction Coalition.

Administrator Hyde joined Secretary Sebelius and other world health leaders on another historic panel discussing the health issues of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons worldwide.  This panel was the first of its kind, sponsored by the U.S., Brazil and Thailand.  The U.S. leadership on this issue, from the President and throughout the federal government, was noted and applauded by many throughout the WHA.

Further actions on all these issues will continue as the WHO continues its work to assist countries all over the world in providing preventive and health responses for the people of the world.  Health is one issue that brings countries together to act collectively and collaboratively for the benefit of all.