Finding more money for mental health and spending it wisely

This post was written by Shekhar Saxena, Senior advisor, United for Global Mental Health. Mr. Saxena was also that Former Director, Department of Mental Health and Substance Use, World Health Organization and a Former Professor of the Practice of Global Mental Health, Harvard University The Challenge of Investing in Mental Health For decades, professionals and advocates have called for increased funding for global mental health—but with limited success. Mental health continues to receive minimal investment globally, both from governments and development partners. According to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Mental Health Atlas, governments spend just 2% of their health budgets on mental health; the amount is even smaller in low- and middle-income countries. Development aid and philanthropic funding are also scarce, contributing less than 1% to global mental health efforts. This persistent underinvestment reflects widespread stigma, limited public awareness, and weak advocacy movements. However, 2025 offers a timely opportunity for change. On September 25th, the UN General Assembly (UNGA80) will host a High-Level Meeting (HLM) on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and Mental Health. This is a critical moment for advocates to push governments to commit to real investments in mental health—and to hold them accountable for those commitments. Making the Case for Investment The strongest argument for investing in mental health lies in the evidence: mental health interventions are highly cost-effective. WHO data shows that many mental health treatments deliver returns on par with those for other chronic diseases. For instance, common mental health conditions, like depression and anxiety, can be effectively treated in primary care settings, with every $1 invested yielding up to $5 in economic return. Research also highlights even greater returns from mental health interventions targeting adolescents, particularly preventive measures. Setting Investment Goals Governments must lead the way in order to meet global mental health goals. They hold the primary responsibility for ensuring the mental well-being of their citizens. High-income countries should aim to allocate at least 10% of their health budgets to mental health, while low- and middle-income countries should target a minimum of 5%. This is both necessary and achievable. But the responsibility doesn’t end with the health sector. Mental health investment must also extend to education, employment, social protection, and poverty alleviation, recognizing the cross-sectoral nature of mental well-being. Investing Wisely More money is essential—but how it’s spent matters equally. Currently, a large portion of mental health budgets goes to psychiatric hospitals, which are often inefficient and violate the rights of patients. Instead, investment should prioritize community-based services, integrated into primary care systems. Training non-specialist providers, supporting prevention programs, and reducing long-term disability and early mortality must be central goals. Equity should guide these investments, ensuring resources reach underserved populations and those at highest risk. Because mental health outcomes take time to manifest, financial sustainability and long-term planning are crucial. The Call to Action International aid and philanthropy can play a supporting role in global mental health—especially in lower-income countries.—BbBut domestic financing is key. As governments prepare for the UN HLM on NCDs and Mental Health, they must recognize the scale of unmet need and step up with bold, sustained action. Now is the time to treat mental health not as a luxury, but as a core pillar of national development and human well-being.