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The National Mental Health Programme
The National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) was launched in May 2014 within the Ministry of Public Health with the support of the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and International Medical Corps (IMC), with the aim of reforming mental health care in Lebanon and providing services beyond medical treatment at the community level, in line with Human Rights and the latest evidence for best practices.
 
NMHP Vision: All people living in Lebanon will have the opportunity to enjoy the best possible mental health and well-being.  
  
Working towards this vision, the NMHP has launched in May 2015, after a process involving all key stakeholders in the country, a Mental Health and Substance Use Prevention, Promotion, and Treatment Strategy for Lebanon for the period of 2015-2020. 
 
Mission: to ensure the development of a sustainable mental health system that guarantees the provision and universal accessibility of high quality mental health curative and preventive services through a cost-effective, evidence-based and multidisciplinary approach, with an emphasis on community involvement, continuum of care, human rights, and cultural relevance. 
 
The implementation of this Strategy is successfully ongoing since its launching.
 
The NMHP has also coordinated the development of the "Inter-ministerial Substance Use Response Strategy for Lebanon 2016-2021" launched jointly in December 2016 by the ministries of Public Health, Social Affairs, Interior and Municipalities, Justice and Education. The implementation of this Strategy has been initiated.
 
We are in the process of developing the national mental health strategy for Lebanon that will guide the work to be done in the country in the coming 7 years.
The strategy draft is ready, and we would like to receive your input, as a member of the public.
 
Check the easy-read summary of the strategy draft here:
This summary aims to provide you with a short overview of what the strategy is about and what it aims to achieve, to make it easier to provide
feedback.
Easy-read summary-English 
Easy-read summary-Arabic 
 
Check the full version of the strategy draft here:
DRAFT-National Mental Health Strategy 2023-2030-English 
DRAFT-National Mental Health Strategy 2023-2030-Arabic 
 
How can you share your opinion on the Strategy draft?
By writing your input on the following online feedback form
bit.ly/3WGN5VH
 
Deadline: June 23, 2023
 
 
 

The Ministry of Public Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and International Medical Corps (IMC), launched on the 14th of May 2015 the Mental Health and Substance Use Prevention, Promotion, and Treatment Strategy for Lebanon 2015-2020.



With the vision that all people living in Lebanon will have the opportunity to enjoy the best possible mental health and wellbeing, the mission driving the Strategy is:

To ensure the development of a sustainable mental health system that guarantees the provision and universal accessibility of high quality mental health curative and preventive services through a cost-effective, evidence-based and multidisciplinary approach, with an emphasis on community involvement, continuum of care, human rights, and cultural relevance.

The strategy document was the result of a participatory process involving all actors in the field of mental health and substance use in Lebanon as well as international experts. The strategy underwent many stages of consultations to ensure that it addresses all national priorities identified by the main actors in the field. 

To download the strategy, please click on the link below:

Mental Health and Substance Use Prevention, Promotion and Treatment Strategy for Lebanon 2015-2020

External mid-term evaluation of the Lebanon national Mental Health Strategy 2015-2020

An external independent mid-term evaluation of the “Mental Health and Substance Use Strategy for Lebanon 2015-2020” was conducted with the following objectives:
  • To assess the level of the implementation of the strategy and the progress towards the achievement of the expected results
  • To asses the efficiency and effectiveness of the implementation through examining conducive factors as well as challenges that need to be addressed.
  • To provide recommendations for the effective and efficient implementation and monitoring of the remaining part of the strategy towards mental health reform.
To read the executive summary of the report, click on the link below:
Executive summary of the external mid-term evaluation report of the Lebanon National Mental Health Strategy

To read the full report, click on the link below:
Report of the external mid-term evaluation of the Lebanon National Mental Health Strategy

Map of substance use and rehabilitation services in Lebanon

Map of organizations providing substance use and rehabilitation services in Lebanon

Substance use and rehabilitation services map- Lebanon
 

The “Inter-ministerial Substance Use Response Strategy for Lebanon 2016-2021” was launched by the Ministries of Public Health, Social Affairs, Education and Higher Education, Interior and Municipalities and Justice in December 2016.The domains of action of the strategy cover all the spectrum of response to substance use (alcohol, drugs and tobacco use): the prevention of substance use disorders; the harm reduction, treatment, rehabilitation and re-integration into society of persons with substance use disorders, and supply reduction.
 
The strategy aims at:
  1.  Increased availability of high quality age and gender sensitive prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, social re-integration and harm reduction services and
  2.  Increased accessibility to these services,
  3.  Increased protection of human rights of persons with substance use disorders, and
  4.  Increased efficiency and effectiveness of supply reduction activities.
 
The achievement of the above goals will assist on the long-term in:
  • Decreasing prevalence of substance use disorders
  • Delaying the age of onset of substance use
  • Decreasing the prevalence of communicable diseases among People Who Inject Drugs
  • Decreasing the number of overdose cases
  • Decreasing the stigmaaround persons with substance use disorders
To download the strategy, please click on the link below:
Inter-ministerial Substance Use Response Strategy for Lebanon 2016-2021

To download the press release of the Strategy launching, please click on the link below:
Press Release: Launching of the Inter-ministerial Substance Use Response Strategy for Lebanon 201-2021
 
 
In response to the escalating situation and war on Lebanon, the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has developed and is currently implementing with all stakeholders the:
“National Intersectoral MHPSS Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan: In the Context of the Risk of War on Lebanon "

Developed through a collaborative approach by the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) with the support of the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and all MHPSS Stakeholders (please refer to the action plan for a full list), this comprehensive plan outlines a proactive approach to anticipating, mitigating, and responding to the psychosocial impacts by focusing on early intervention and support to minimize the adverse effects on individuals, healthcare personnel and communities. It underscores the commitment of the MoPH and the NMHP to safeguard mental health and respond timely and effectively to the psychosocial needs of all populations residing in Lebanon during times of crisis while promoting their resilience.

Key Features of the Plan:
  • Continuity of MHPSS Services: The plan highlights actions to ensure the continued availability and accessibility of MHPSS services across Lebanon.
  • Assurance of Psychotropic Medications: The plan emphasizes ensuring the continuous supply and access to psychotropic medications to all old and new beneficiaries.
  • Communication and Messaging: The plan prioritizes the development and dissemination of key messages and tips on topics related to mental health and well-being that would promote community resilience.
  • Training and Capacity Building: The plan places a strong emphasis on training healthcare professionals and frontline responders in MHPSS principles and practices to provide effective support to service users and providers.
The MoPH is implementing this action plan with all stakeholders, including governmental bodies, local authorities and municipalities, non-governmental organizations, healthcare providers, frontliners, and the international community - Please do reach out if your organization is interested to join in implementing this crucial plan and working together to ensure the mental health and psychosocial support of Lebanon’s residents during times of adversity.

Kindly find a selection of valuable links below:

National action plan for the mental health and psychosocial support response to Beirut Explosion Disaster


To view the action plan which is under implementation, click: here

HOW TO SUPPORT SOMEONE AFTER A TRAUMATIC EVENT- TIPS BASED ON PSYCHOLOGICAL FIRST AID

If you are a relief frontliner on the ground, these tips are to help you support others! Download brief  

 كيفية دعم شخص ما بعد حدث صادم نصائح تستند إلى الإسعافات النفسية الأولية: تحميل الارشادات

HOW TO HELP CHILDREN COPE WITH A TRAUMATIC EVENT

Recommendations on how to help children cope with a traumatic event: 

Click to download:   English   /   Arabic

Tipsheet- for OBYN and Midwives following Beirut Explosion

Helpful tips for OBGYN and midwives when supporting women who are pregnant or women who have recently given birth (around he time of Beirut explosion).

Click to dowload: English / Arabic

Directory of mental health professionals for mental health support for persons affected by Beirut explosion

Directory of mental health professionals for mental health support for persons affected by Beirut explosion:

National Action Plan for the MHPSS Response to COVID-19

This action plan was developed as part of the national response to the COVID-19 outbreak. It aims at comprehensively addressing the MHPSS aspects of the COVID-19 outbreak in Lebanon for all persons living in the country. It was developed by the MOPH-National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) with WHO and UNICEF, in line with the IASC Briefing note on addressing mental health and psychosocial aspects of COVID-19 Outbreak- version 1.0 and the local needs, health system and national mental health strategy. 
 
Goals:
  1. Promote mental health and mitigate COVID-19 related stressors including stigma and discrimination against persons affected and health workers.
  2. Provide mental health support to the persons in quarantine in the hospital or at home and their families.
  3. Support the mental health of health workers and first responders in the response.
  4. Ensure continuity of mental health care for persons using mental health services in line with IPC guidelines.
 To view the action plan, click here: National Action Plan for MHPSS Response to COVID-19

National Campaign to Address Stigma Related to COVID-19

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) through the National Mental Health Programme, UNICEF, UNDP, the World Health Organization and Abaad have joined forces together to break the stigma associated with the novel corona virus (COVID-19), in line with the nation action plan for the MHPSS response to COVID-19. Under the slogan “#TheRealTest”, the national campaign was launched on several TV outlets with a synchronized introduction of primetime news.

For more information on the campaign: Press release (Eng) / Press release (Ar)

Check out:
  • Campaign launch with synchronized introduction of prime time news:  Watch
  • Campaign feature film: Watch
  • Messages of Hope from Celebrities:
 Watch Assi El Hellani Watch Claudia Marchelian Watch Wissam Breidy
Watch Halima Tabia Watch Mohammad Kais Watch Raneem Bou Zakhem
Watch Pierre Rabat    
       

Mental health support system for persons in quarantine

Checklist for nursing teams on taking care of the mental health of patients in quarantine: Click here

Patient leaflet on coping with stress during quarantine: Click here

Poster for quarantines: Click here



 

Tips to cope with stress during COVID-19

   

    
Type Signature Number Date Topic Document
Circular Minister of Public Health
 
9 9-3-2022 Related to providing specialized mental health medications in primary health care centers
 
Circular Number 9: Related to providing specialized mental health medications in primary health care centers
 
Decision Minister of Public Health 271/1 25/02/2019 Related to the Assessment of the Health Status of Patients Transferred from Al-Fanar Hospital Decision Number 271/1: Related to the Assessment of the Health Status of Patients Transferred from Al-Fanar Hospital
Decision Minister of Public Health 270/1 25/02/2019 Related to the Quality of Care and Human Rights in the Field of Mental Health  Decision Number 270/1: Related to the Quality of Care of Human Rights in the Field of Mental Health

Circular 

Director General

60

20/06/2018

Related to the rational prescription of medication for priority mental and neurological conditions for specialists in the public health system

Circular Number 60: Related to the rational prescription of medication for priority mental and neurological conditions for specialists in the public health system

Circular  Director General 112 27/11/2018 Related to limiting the practice of the profession of psychologist in healthcare and educational institutions exclusively to professionals who have the license to practice from the Ministry of Public Health Circular Number 112: Related to limiting the practice of the profession of psychologist in healthcare and educational institutions exclusively to professionals who have the license to practice from the Ministry of Public Health
Circular  Director General 113 22/11/2018 Related to the mandatory licensing for the practice of the profession of Psychologist (clinical and educational) Circular number 113: related to the mandatory licensing for the practice of the profession of Psychologist (clinical and educational)
Decision Minister of Public Health 1155 19-06-2018 Decision related to the National Mental Health Programme Decision number 1155: related to the National Mental Health Programme
Circular Director General 22 09-03-2018 Regulation of studies and research in the field of mental health and psychosocial support Circular number 22: related to the regulation of studies and research in the field of mental health and psychosocial support
Annexe   1320/1 02-2018 Guidelines issued by the National Mental Health Program in the Ministry of Public Health regarding the necessary procedures and documents needed to obtain a license to practice clinical and non-clinical (educational) psychology profession. Guidelines issued by the National Mental Health Program in the Ministry of Public Health regarding the necessary procedures and documents needed to obtain a license to practice clinical and non-clinical (educational) psychology profession.
Circular Director General 48 12-06-2017 Regulation of research in the field of mental health Circular number 48: Related to the regulation of research in the field of mental health
Circular Director General 64 12-06-2017 Projects related to MHPSS and substance use in Lebanon Circular number 64: Projects related to MHPSS and substance use in Lebanon
Circular Director General 46 22-03-2016 Request to hospitals to not report on overdose Circular number 46: related to the request to hospitals to not report on overdose
Type Signature Number Date Topic Document
Circular Minister of Public Health
 
9 9-3-2022 Related to providing specialized mental health medications in primary health care centers
 
Circular Number 9: Related to providing specialized mental health medications in primary health care centers
 
Decision Minister of Public Health 271/1 25/02/2019 Related to the Assessment of the Health Status of Patients Transferred from Al-Fanar Hospital Decision Number 271/1: Related to the Assessment of the Health Status of Patients Transferred from Al-Fanar Hospital
Decision Minister of Public Health 270/1 25/02/2019 Related to the Quality of Care and Human Rights in the Field of Mental Health  Decision Number 270/1: Related to the Quality of Care of Human Rights in the Field of Mental Health

Circular 

Director General

60

20/06/2018

Related to the rational prescription of medication for priority mental and neurological conditions for specialists in the public health system

Circular Number 60: Related to the rational prescription of medication for priority mental and neurological conditions for specialists in the public health system

Circular  Director General 112 27/11/2018 Related to limiting the practice of the profession of psychologist in healthcare and educational institutions exclusively to professionals who have the license to practice from the Ministry of Public Health Circular Number 112: Related to limiting the practice of the profession of psychologist in healthcare and educational institutions exclusively to professionals who have the license to practice from the Ministry of Public Health
Circular  Director General 113 22/11/2018 Related to the mandatory licensing for the practice of the profession of Psychologist (clinical and educational) Circular number 113: related to the mandatory licensing for the practice of the profession of Psychologist (clinical and educational)
Decision Minister of Public Health 1155 19-06-2018 Decision related to the National Mental Health Programme Decision number 1155: related to the National Mental Health Programme
Circular Director General 22 09-03-2018 Regulation of studies and research in the field of mental health and psychosocial support Circular number 22: related to the regulation of studies and research in the field of mental health and psychosocial support
Annexe   1320/1 02-2018 Guidelines issued by the National Mental Health Program in the Ministry of Public Health regarding the necessary procedures and documents needed to obtain a license to practice clinical and non-clinical (educational) psychology profession. Guidelines issued by the National Mental Health Program in the Ministry of Public Health regarding the necessary procedures and documents needed to obtain a license to practice clinical and non-clinical (educational) psychology profession.
Circular Director General 48 12-06-2017 Regulation of research in the field of mental health Circular number 48: Related to the regulation of research in the field of mental health
Circular Director General 64 12-06-2017 Projects related to MHPSS and substance use in Lebanon Circular number 64: Projects related to MHPSS and substance use in Lebanon
Circular Director General 46 22-03-2016 Request to hospitals to not report on overdose Circular number 46: related to the request to hospitals to not report on overdose

Maternal Mental Health Guidelines for Healthcare Providers

In line with the national mental health strategy for Lebanon, the National Mental Health Programme Lebanon - at the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) has jointly developed with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Lebanon the Maternal Mental Health Guidelines through the support of Embassy of Canada to Lebanon. 

These guidelines intend to promote the growth of a sustainable mental health practice that ensures access to high-quality mental health services.  It is also intended to serve as a guiding tool to professionals in the public health system with the sole purpose of supporting Maternal and Child Mental Health.


Maternal Mental Health Guidelines for Healthcare Providers
 

Practical Guide for Media Professionals on the Coverage of Mental Health and Substance Use

The National Mental Health Programme in the Ministry of Public Health with the support of the World Health Organization developed a Practical Guide for Media Professionals on the Coverage of Mental Health and Substance Use. The guide is designed to be used by journalists, news reporters, anchors, television shows hosts, social media bloggers, script writers and other media professionals. It is contextualized and culturally adapted to the media scene in Lebanon so as to answer questions related to mental health and substance use. The guide helps media professionals produce successful media outputs on mental health and substance use. It was prepared based on findings from interviews with media professionals which aimed to explore their needs and the challenges they face when addressing mental health and substance use topics.

Practical Guide for Media Professionals on the Coverage of Mental Health and Substance Use 

Accreditation standards for residential substance use rehabilitation programmes - 2019

The aim of these Accreditation Standards is to improve the quality of care and to ensure the protection of Human Rights for persons in Residential Substance Use Rehabilitation facilities in Lebanon. They have been developed in line with strategic objective 2.3.2 of the “Inter-ministerial Substance Use Response Strategy for Lebanon 2016-2021”, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Social Affairs and reviewed by local and international experts in the field.
 
Accreditation standards for residential substance use rehabilitation programmes -Lebanon 2019 

Guide for the rational prescription of medications for priority mental and neurological conditions for specialists in the public health system

The “Guide for the rational prescription of medications for priority mental and neurological conditions for specialists in the public health system” constitutes a reference document for evidence-based and culturally appropriate decision-making for pharmacological treatment of priority mental and neurological conditions. This guide is based on the “National List of Psychotropic and Neurological Medications for Humanitarian Response, v2.0” which was developed to harmonize the procurement and provision of medications amongst all actors. In addition, a separate list of medical tests needed to monitor the side effects of these medications (as per the guide) is available in English and French.
In line with the continuum of care, this guide advocates for the rational medication prescription based on the national list and highlights the importance of the psychosocial component in the treatment of mental and neurological conditions as part of the holistic person-centred care.
This guide was made possible through the fruitful collaboration between the MOPH and the World Health Organization. The process of development encompassed two rounds of technical review from experts at local and international levels.
The guide is available in English and French.
 
Psychotropic Medication guide- English
Guide des medicaments Psychotropes- Francais
 

Recruitment criteria for professionals working in mental health in humanitarian settings

As part of the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Task Force (MHPSS TF) action plan set every year to address challenges faced in MHPSS work, recruitment criteria for mental health professionals working in the humanitarian field were developed with the aim of ensuring that professionals with the minimum needed qualifications are employed.
These criteria are recommended to use by all organizations operating in this field in Lebanon

To download the recruitment criteria, please click on the link below:
Recruitment Criteria for Professionals Working in Mental Health in Humanitarian Settings-V.1

 

To view list, click here: Link

Note: "Only psychologists who are members of the order are entitled to practice their profession on the Lebanese territories,  provided they are issued a licence to practice their profession in Lebanon from the Ministry of Public Health."

National Mental Health Awareness Campaign 2019

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), launched the fourth National Awareness Campaign on Mental Health “Mental Health in the Workplace” with the slogan “Don’t miss the opportunity” “ما تضيعوا الفرصة”, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), ABAAD, ACTED, Ecole Supérieure des Affaires (ESA), Human Resources Association of Lebanon (HRAL), International Medical Corps (IMC), Médecins du Monde (MDM), and SKOUN, through an official launching event at ESA Business School (Auditorium Fattal) on Wednesday, September 18, 2019. The campaign was the launching pad of the “National Initiative for Mental Health in the Workplace”, which aims to support employers in ensuring mentally healthy workplaces for them, their teams and their business to thrive.

Read the press release of the national mental health campaign 2019
 
Read the MOPH’s speech
 
Watch the short video of the Launching event: Link
 
Watch the video of the Campaign: Link 
 

National Mental Health Awareness Campaign 2018

"Time to talk"

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), launched the third National Awareness Campaign on Mental Health “Time_To_Talk” “صار_وقت_نحكي”, under the sponsorship of the World Health Organization (WHO), ABAAD, International Medical Corps (IMC), and Medecins du Monde, through an official launching event open to the public in Nejmeh Square in the capital’s centre on Friday September 14, 2018. The campaign extended for a month until October 10, 2018, World Mental Health Day. The aim of the campaign is to encourage persons to speak about mental health anytime and anywhere and to encourage people to listen and support persons when they need to seek care.

Read the press release of the national mental health campaign 2018:
Press release
 
Watch the campaign awareness video: 
"Time to talk"
 
Watch the short documentary on public perception of mental health: 
Public perception of mental health

Watch the overview of the National Mental Health Launching event: 
National Mental Health Launching event

Watch the Mental Health Testimonials:
Mental Health Testimonials

Check out the campaign key messages:







 

National Mental Health Awareness Campaign 2017

"Depression: Let's Talk About It to Get Out of It"

The Ministry of Public Health launched on April 7 the National Mental Health Campaign 2017  "Depression: Let's Talk About IT to Get Out of It" on the occasion of World Health Day. 

Watch the campaign awareness video: 
Read the informational brochure about depression:


Informational Brochure-Depression

View the list of Primary Health Care Centres and university hospitals where you can access mental health services:
 

View the poster of the campaign:
Poster- Depression 

Watch the Documentary about "Mental Health in Lebanon: Vision and Achievements"

 

 

National Mental Health Awareness Campaign 2015

"My Mental Health is my Right"

The Ministry of Public Health launched on November 10, 2015, the National Mental Health Campaign 2015 "My Mental Health is my Right". 

Watch the campaign awareness video: 
"My Mental Health is my right"

Read the informational brochure about mental health:
Informational Brochure- My Mental Health is my Right


Read the press release of the national mental health campaign 2015:
Press release


 
The National Initiative for Mental health in the workplace was launched on September 18, 2019 by the Ministry of Public Health.
 
Why?
Several factors affect our mental health, be it personal, social or professional with impacts which can be both positive or negative. Thus, what is the link between mental health and the workplace? In fact, we spend most of our lives at work and work in and by itself protects us from mental disorders. However, a mentally unhealthy work environment - that is, one that is loaded with stress and poor managerial and organizational practices which affect the mental health of staff - can increase the risk of mental disorders, especially depression, anxiety disorders, or substance use disorders. An unhealthy work environment, through its impact on staff, can increase staff absenteeism and turnover and cause low productivity levels, all in all translating into major economic losses. On the other hand, workplaces which promote and protect mental health score high levels of productivity and return on investments through interventions aimed at promoting mental health in the workplace.  
 
Objective:
To support employers to ensure mentally healthy workplaces for them, their teams and their business to thrive.
 
How?
This initiative includes: Statement of intent, which employers are encouraged to sign, which outlines the key principles and procedures to be implemented by employers if they want to be on the right track and commit themselves to the protection and promotion of mental health in their workplace. By signing the Charter and pledging to implement it, employers are taking a major step towards the success of their organizations and contributing to the national vision that aims to give "all individuals in Lebanon the opportunity to enjoy the best possible mental health".
 
  • National web portal on mental health in the workplace:
A full-fledged website which is designed as a web portal, accessible to anyone, with resources to promote mental health in the workplace. The website includes general information on mental health, the charter, the number of organizations pledging, case studies and testimonies, where to find support, etc.
 
Visit the website to take the Pledge or learn more:  mhworkplace.moph.gov.lb
 
  • The National Mental Health Campaign:
The National Awareness campaign 2019 aimed at launching the initiative and at conveying why mental health in the workplace is crucial for employers, their teams and the success of their organisations.
Learn more: Link to NMH campaign page
 

Information, Education and Communication material

Information, Education and Communication material about different Mental Health topics. The aim of this material is to provide information and increase awareness on mental health topics (Signs and symptoms, causes and risks factors, treatments and ways to help oneself or to seek help). 













Assessments

Needs of women with substance use disorders in Lebanon - 2019

In line with objective 6.1.2 of the “Inter-ministerial Substance Use Response Strategy for Lebanon 2016-2021”, a qualitative assessment of the needs of women with substance use disorders was conducted to explore their perceived needs and experiences while receiving services. The purpose is to provide recommendations for proper tailoring of the services for the specific needs of women. 
 

Assessment of mental health and psychosocial support services for Syrian refugees in Lebanon.

This report presents results, main findings and recommendations from the assessment conducted in August-September 2013 for the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) services provided for Syrian refugees in Lebanon commissioned by UNHCR. The objectives of this assessment were:
-Reviewing existing data on MHPSS provided for Syrian refugees in Lebanon.
-Mapping the NGOs providing MHPSS services in Beirut, Bekaa, South and North Lebanon (4Ws).
-Assessing the conformity of programmes and services to international guidelines such as IASC guidelines, Psychological First Aid and the WHO mental health Gap Action Programme intervention guide (mhGAP-IG), taking into consideration the accessibility, the acceptability, the affordability and the quality of care.
-Assessing the coordination between different actors.
-Analysing existing models, highlighting the gaps, reflecting on the particular context of Syrian refugees in Lebanon and provide practical recommendations to UNCHR.

Assessment of mental health and psychosocial support services for Syrian refugees in Lebanon

Articles

Using COVID-19 Responses to Help Strengthen the Mental Health System in Lebanon

This paper describes national-level mental health responses to COVID-19 in Lebanon. It then notes factors that have supported the mental health response, including how COVID-19 represents a window of opportunity to help strengthen the mental health system in Lebanon.
 
To read the article, click on the following link: Link

Improving humanitarian crisis response policy and practice: mental health and psychosocial support coordination in Lebanon

This article, published in the Humanitarian exchange, shares Lebanon’s experience and lessons learned in mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) response coordination following the Syrian crisis. Lessons learned and key considerations for MHPSS coordination are put forth.
To read the article, click on the following link: Link
 

Letters to the editor- Lancet Journal - on the Syrian crisis and mental health system reform in Lebanon

These two letters to the Editor, published in the Lancet Journal, provide an overview of the situation in Lebanon amidst the Syrian crisis and the resilience of the health system against all odds. They particularly shed light on the establishment of a national mental health programme and the launching of a mental health system reform in Lebanon, as an example of turning adversity into positive change. The factors that have led to this growth are highlighted. The authors nevertheless warn about the importance of bearing in mind the major impact that social determinants have on mental health and stress that effective action for mental health will be hindered unless these determinants, such as ongoing conflict, displacement and socio-political injustices, are addressed.

1.Syrian crisis and mental health system reform in Lebanon-Correspondence- Vol384- Lancet Journal-August2014
 2.Mental health reform in Lebanon and the Syrian crisis. Correspondence- Vol3- Lancet Journal-March2016

Developing an inter-ministerial substance use response strategy for Lebanon: process, content and lessons learned

This article indicates that evidence on substance use in Lebanon shows an increase in usage, limited availability and accessibility to evidence-based services, and high level of stigma and discrimination. In line with the “Mental Health and Substance Use Strategy for Lebanon 2015–2020”, the Ministry of Public Health initiated the process of developing a strategy focused on substance use response to address these challenges in collaboration with the Ministries of Education and Higher Education, Interior and Municipalities, Justice and Social Affairs. The result of this process was a strategy launched jointly by the ministries including six domains of action covering the whole spectrum of substance use response with strategic objectives addressing the identified challenges.

Download Developing an inter-ministerial substance use response strategy for Lebanon: process, content and lessons learned

Lebanon: mental health system reform and the Syrian crisis

This article, published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, provides an overview of the mental health situation in Lebanon amidst the Syrian crisis. Research involving refugees conducted in Lebanon since the onset of the Syrian crisis points to a clear increase in mental disorders in the young and adult Syrian refugee population in association with that crisis. At the policy level, despite the great strain on its health system, Lebanon has undertaken a reform of the mental health system through the implementation of a 5-year national mental health strategy which aims at improving the opportunities for better mental health and wellbeing for all persons living in Lebanon, regardless of nationality.

Download ​Lebanon: mental health system reform and the Syrian crisis

Policy briefs

Preventing suicide in Lebanon-Much can be done with whole-of-society approach

On the occasion of World suicide Prevention Day 2020, this policy brief was launched by the NMHP, WHO, Embrace with the support of AFD, highlighting key statistics in Lebanon, what needs to be done, and what has been done so far.

Decreasing suicide is a target of the 2030 sustainable development agenda and the global mental health action plan. If not addressed, suicide has huge impact on individuals, families, societies, and humanity as a whole. 

To read the brief:  English / Arabic

Turning Adversity into Opportunity: the Syrian Crisis and Mental Health Reform in Lebanon

Policy brief highlighting main policy recommendations related to the mental health system reform in Lebanon.

Reports

External mid-term evaluation of the Lebanon national Mental Health Strategy 2015-2020

An external independent mid-term evaluation of the “Mental Health and Substance Use Strategy for Lebanon 2015-2020” was conducted with the following objectives:
  • To assess the level of the implementation of the strategy and the progress towards the achievement of the expected results
  • To asses the efficiency and effectiveness of the implementation through examining conducive factors as well as challenges that need to be addressed.
  • To provide recommendations for the effective and efficient implementation and monitoring of the remaining part of the strategy towards mental health reform.
To read the executive summary of the report, click on the link below:
Executive summary of the external mid-term evaluation report of the Lebanon National Mental Health Strategy

To read the full report, click on the link below:
Report of the external mid-term evaluation of the Lebanon National Mental Health Strategy

WHO-AIMS Report on Mental Health System in Lebanon 2015

The World Health Organization Assessment Instrument for Mental Health Systems (WHO-AIMS) was used to collect information on the mental health system in Lebanon.

This included assessment of the policy and legislative framework; mental health services; mental health in primary health care; human resources; public education and links with other sectors; and monitoring and research.

The goal of collecting this information is to enable policy makers to develop information-based mental health plans with clear base-line information and targets.

This assessment took place between February 2015 and July 2015, and data retrieved is based on the year 2014 and collected from facility, district/regional, and national levels. 

Mappings of services

Mapping of services for response to substance use disorders report- 2017

The mapping of services report provides a snapshot of existing services for substance use disorders in Lebanon in 2017, from prevention to treatment, rehabilitation, harm reduction and social re-integration. This is a descriptive report on the geographical distribution, target population, and human resources that provide these services. The findings constitute an essential tool for building a national referral system and for planning the scale-up of services.

Mapping of services for response to substance use disorders - 2017 

Map of substance use and rehabilitation services in Lebanon

Map of organizations providing substance use and rehabilitation services in Lebanon

Substance use and rehabilitation services map- Lebanon
 

The “4Ws” in Lebanon: Who’s Doing What, Where and Until When in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support

 

Report of the mapping exercise conducted by the National Mental Health Programme for the year 2014 using the WHO “4Ws” mapping tool, which is an essential component for locating, assessing, coordinating and planning MHPSS services.

The report compares the 2014 results to those of the previous and first mapping exercise of the 4Ws in Lebanon published in the December 2013 UNHCR commissioned report, "Assessment of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services for Syrian Refugees in Lebanon" to display the changes in service delivery.
 
The report concludes with a set of recommendations in relation to five main domains: training, service provision, research, coordination and the future “4Ws” mappings. 
 

Publications of the National Observatory on Drugs and Drug Addiction (NODDA)

The National Observatry on Drugs and Drug Addiction (NODDA) was launched by the Ministry of Public Health in 2016 in line with the implementation of a strategic objective of the “Inter-ministerial Substance Use Response Strategy for Lebanon 2016-2021”.
The NODDA plays a key role in collecting, analyzing and generating evidence from national databases that can inform policy and service development.
Read more on: http://www.moph.gov.lb/en/Pages/3/4771/narcotics-#/en/view/10643/national-observatory-on-drugs-and-drug-addiction
 

National Report on Drug Situation in Lebanon – 2017

This is the first report of the National Observatory on Drugs and Drug Addiction on the drug situation in Lebanon The report focuses on drug prevalence, market, policy, treatment and prevention in Lebanon. The reporting period extends between 2000 and 2016 inclusive.

To view the report, please click on the following link:
NODDA report- 2017

 

High-level meeting on the mental health reform in Lebanon- midterm evaluation results and priority-setting

The Ministry of Public Health-National Mental Health Programme held in February 2019 a high-level national stakeholder meeting to present the results and recommendations of the midterm evaluation of the National Mental Health Strategy for Lebanon (2015-2020) conducted by two international experts in global mental health, with the support of the World Health Organization. The meeting brought together around 130 persons from all stakeholders groups in Lebanon: Governmental, non-governmental organisations, United Nations agencies, professional associations, healthcare facilities, health professionals, academicians, and persons with lived experience.

To learn more about the event, watch this video: Link

Improving mental health care in humanitarian crises

What progress has been made in strengthening the evidence base on effective mental health and psychosocial support approaches in humanitarian contexts and translating this into good practice? What are the barriers to implementing MHPSS interventions for people affected by humanitarian crises? Panellists in this discussion discuss these questions drawing on articles in the latest issue of Humanitarian Exchange magazine and their own research and experience. Representing the MOPH Lebanon-National Mental Health Programme, Nour Kik discusses the mental health response to the Syrian crisis in Lebanon, with a focus on mental health and psychosocial support coordination.
 
To watch the panel click on the following link: Link

Documentary: "Mental Health in Lebanon: Vision and Achievements"

Watch the Documentary about the vision of the Ministry of Public Health in Lebanon for mental health and the achievements that have been done so far to reform the mental health system in the country in collaboration with different stakeholders. 
 

Episode 1 of the “Ask the Policy Expert” Webinar Series with the head of the National Mental Health Programme

" Ask the Policy Expert" webinars are a series of webinars organized by the Mental Health Innovation Network to discuss each major objective of the WHO’s comprehensive mental health action plan 2013-2020, to learn more about the approaches used by policy makers to implement mental health programs and how policy makers are aiming to achieve the action plan targets.
Dr Rabih El Chammay, Head of the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP), Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) of Lebanon, was invited to participate in the first episode of the webinar series to talk about the NMHP launched in May 2014 by the MOPH in Lebanon with the support of WHO, UNICEF and International Medical Corps (IMC).

http://www.mhinnovation.net/new-series-ask-policy-expert-dr-rabih-el-chammay-lebanon

 

Nature Podcast on Global Mental Health

Mental health disorders touch rich and poor, young and old, in every country around the world. In the first episode of an audio show published by Nature Journal in collaboration with Grand Challenges, three experts, including Dr. Rabih El Chammay, head of the National Mental Health Programme at the Ministry of Public Health in Lebanon, discuss the evidence for interventions, how to get help to the right people, and which challenge, if solved, would help the most. In addition to discussing the priorities in global mental health, Dr. Chammay highlights the work being done by the MOPH in reforming the mental health system in Lebanon. 

To hear the podcast, click on the link below:


Podcast appears here with permission from Nature Research. 

 
The Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Task Force is a coordination body chaired by the Ministry of Public Health and co-chaired by WHO and UNICEF, which comprises around 60 organisations working in the MHPSS response (UN agencies, local and international NGOs and ministries).

Its mission is to ensure an effective, coordinated and focused inter-agency response to the MHPSS needs of the persons affected by the Syrian crisis and the host population in Lebanon through identifying and addressing the gaps, promoting the importance of MHPSS at all levels as well as developing standards and building the capacity of the MHPSS sector.

To achieve this mission, an annual action plan is developed by the task force to focus its work on addressing the identified gaps and priorities.

The task force meets on a monthly basis at central level in Beirut and at regional level in the Bekaa, in the North, and in the South.

Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Indicators

The Mental Health and Psycho Social (MHPSS) indicators are designed to monitor the accessibility to and quality of the available MHPSS services provided by MHPSS non-governmental and humanitarian actors.
 
The main purposes of these indicators are:
- To monitor the access of persons with mental disorders to doctors trained on Mental Health Gap Action Program (mhGAP), psychologists and psychiatrists
- To monitor the trend of mental health diagnosis
- To follow-up on specific vulnerable groups and decrease risk of relapses and suicide
- To empower the persons with mental disorders and their caregivers
- To increase reporting of persons benefiting from psychosocial activities through reporting on some Child Protection (CP) indicators related to PSS activities
 - To increase the number of staff trained on evidence based mental health interventions
 - To increase the number of staff benefiting from staff care activities
MHPSS indicators- V1.4

Minutes of meetings

2016 2017
MoM-MHPSS TF-Beirut-26-Nov16
MoM-MHPSS TF-Beirut-25-Oct16
MoM-MHPSS TF-Beirut-24-Sep16
MoM-MHPSS TF-Beirut-23-Aug16
MoM-MHPSS TF-Beirut-22-July16
MoM-MHPSS TF-Beirut-20-Apr16
MoM-MHPSS TF-Beirut-19-Mar16
MoM-MHPSS TF-Beirut-18-Feb16
MoM-MHPSS TF-Beirut-17-Jan16
MoM-MHPSS TF-Beirut-9-May17
MoM-MHPSS TF-Beirut-31-July17
MoM-MHPSS TF-Beirut-12-Sep17
MoM-MHPSS TF-Beirut-14-Nov17

Bekaa
2018 2019
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-Nov18
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-Oct18
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-​Sep18
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-Aug18
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-July18
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-June18
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-Apr19
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-Mar19
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-Feb19
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-Jan19
 
2016 2017
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-20-Dec16
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-25-Oct16
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-27-Sep16
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-01-May16

MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-28 Feb17
MoM-MHPSS TF-Bekaa-24-Jan17
 

North
2018 2019
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-Nov18
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-Oct18
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-​Sep18
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-Aug18
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-July18
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-Apr19
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-Mar19
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-Feb19
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-Jan19
 
2015 2016
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-1-Aug15
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-2-Sept15
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-3-Oct15
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-4-Nov15
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-5-Dec15
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-14-Nov16
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-13-Oct16
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-12-Aug16
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-10-June16
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-9-May16
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-8-Mar16
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-7-Feb16
MoM-MHPSS TF-North-6-Jan16

South
2018 2019
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-Nov18
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-Oct18
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-​Sep18
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-Aug18
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-July18
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-Apr19
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-Mar19
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-Feb19
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-Jan19

2015 2016
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-5-Dec15
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-4-Nov15
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-3-Oct15
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-2-Sep15
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-1-Aug15
 
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-12-Oct16
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-11-Aug16
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-10-June16
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-9-May16
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-8-March16
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-7-Feb16
MoM-MHPSS TF-South-6-Jan16
 
 
 
 
 


 

Timings of meetings

Area Day Timing Location
Central (Beirut and Mount-Lebanon) Second Tuesday of every month 2pm-3pm WHO conference room (-1), Lebanese University General Directorate (Glass Building), Mathaf
South First Tuesday of every month 10am-11am Alternating locations between Saida, Sarafand and Sour
North First Wednesday fo every month 2pm-3pm Restart Center, Tripoli
Bekaa Fourth Tuesday of every month 12pm-1pm UNHCR, Zahleh

Regulation of research

In line with MOPH Director General Circular 22 issued on 9/3/2018 related to the regulation of research in the field of mental health and psychosocial support and substance use in Lebanon, all organizations intending to conduct a study in this field involving displaced/refugee populations should apply for official approval to conduct the study from the MOPH.
 
For further details, check out Circular 22 here: English / Arabic
To submit an application, please fill this form:
Application to Conduct Research in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support and/or Substance Use in Lebanon-Form


 
The National Mental Health Program (NMHP) newsletter is a quarterly publication which provides up-to-date news and information about the NMHP activities.
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Email: mentalhealth@moph.gov.lb
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