Executive Summary

Following the development of the MHPSS model for Pakistan in 2021, this document outlines specific steps to achieve effective implementation over 5-years (2025-2030). It further defines the process in terms of timelines, roles and responsibilities, and required resources. Additionally, it provides a framework for how the MHPSS model may be implemented and monitored to deliver effective MHPSS services

The first section of this implementation plan presents a brief overview of the estimated burden of mental health problems in Pakistan particularly in the light of the challenges related to socio-political context, climate change, and refugee influx. The analysis reveals severe dearth and inequitable distribution of existing services which has resulted in a huge treatment gap. It also explains the urgent need to invest in mental healthcare services in Pakistan.

The second section relates to Pakistan’s efforts to fulfill its obligations towards Sustainable Development Goals by promoting mental well-being and reducing the disease burden of mental, neurological, and substance use disorders through prevention and treatment interventions. In addition, Pakistan’s commitment to the World Health Organization's action plan necessitates prioritizing mental healthcare to improve its mental health targets by 2030. The section describes how the Ministry of Planning, Development & Special Initiatives is dedicated to help align MHPSS with the national development and health agenda.

The third section describes the digital, multi-layered MHPSS model which is scalable. The core feature of this model is to build the capacity of a mental health workforce to provide MHPSS services and develop an effective referral mechanism between the community and primary care to specialist services. The model is inclusive and rights-based and aims to address the needs of the most vulnerable and marginalized segments of society.

The next section outlines the implementation challenges and methodological frameworks employed to develop and test comprehensive evidence-driven resources including printed guides, online courses, mobile applications and digital mechanism across four tiers.

The fifth section is about protocols to manage comprehensive data (pertaining to service user and service providers) obtained via MHPSS digital solution. The copyright of the intellectual properties remains with the MoPD&SI, while the ministry will disseminate the data, and may extend the scope of data rights as per data sharing policy.

The implementation plan has been developed on an EPIS framework (Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainability), which provides a systematic approach to roll out the MHPSS services. The sixth section is dedicated to describe the details of the implementation plan through these phases emphasizing the need for intersectoral collaboration, capacity building, and resource allocation to ensure sustainable services.

The final section concludes with a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to ensure accountability and provides valuable insights for strategic decision-making, supporting the program's sustainability and scalability across Pakistan.

It is hoped that this plan will provide valuable guidance to the policy makers at the federal and provincial levels and health system leaders to strategize their plans.