• Nepal plans to upgrade mental health services in two hospitals by providing private consultation rooms and necessary medications.
• A significant portion of the population in Nepal suffers from mental health issues, including adolescents and adults.
• Limited budget allocation and a shortage of mental healthcare workers hinder the effective management of the mental health crisis in Nepal.

Nepal's health authorities are planning to upgrade mental health services in at least two hospitals to provide private consultation rooms and necessary medications. This initiative addresses the lack of specialized mental health care and the social stigma associated with seeking treatment. However, the scale of the problem, with a significant portion of the population suffering from mental health issues, requires more substantial interventions and resources.

• What: Nepal's health authorities are planning to upgrade mental health services in at least two hospitals to ensure private consultation rooms and necessary medications for patients.
• Who: The key entities involved are Nepal's health authorities, the World Health Organisation (WHO), Nepal’s National Health Research Council, Nepal Police, and the Ministry of Finance.
• When: The plans were announced amidst growing calls for prioritisation of mental wellbeing, with the National Mental Health Survey data covering the period 2017-2020 and Nepal Police data from the fiscal year 2023-24.
• Where: The focus is on Nepal, with the planned upgrades initially targeting two hospitals.

The initiative to upgrade mental health services in Nepal is a positive step, but the article highlights the significant challenges the country faces in addressing the mental health crisis. The limited budget allocation and shortage of healthcare workers, coupled with the rising prevalence of mental health problems, necessitate a more comprehensive and well-funded approach. The article argues for a significant increase in the national budget allocated to the health sector, particularly for mental health, to provide equitable care across the country and prevent mental disorders and related deaths.

Nepal's plan to upgrade mental health services is a welcome development, but it is insufficient to address the scale of the problem. Increased investment in mental health, along with policies and interventions, is crucial to preventing mental disorders and related deaths. The mental health crisis must be treated with the seriousness it deserves to ensure that no patient is left behind. The future outlook depends on the government's willingness to prioritize mental health and allocate sufficient resources.