Mission
The mission of the Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health Cluster (NMH) is to provide leadership and the evidence base for international action on surveillance, prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases, mental health disorders, malnutrition, violence and injuries, and disabilities.
Vision
To foster activities in the field of mental health, including those affecting the harmony of human relations. (WHO Constitution)
Objectives
- enhancement of mental health in the public health agenda;
- provision of reliable information base;
- provision of technical guidance;
- strengthening mental health and substance abuse policies.
Strategic approach
- a reliable information base on mental health, neurological and substance abuse problems and service systems;
- evidence-based technical guidance on mental health and substance abuse;
- strengthening policies and systems for mental, neurological and substance abuse care;
- strengthening capacity on mental health and substance abuse policies and systems to deliver services that are effective, adequate and respect the human rights of affected individuals, and respond to emerging mental health problems such as emergencies and HIV/AIDS.
Core functions
- Partnership: with existing and new stakeholders, and bringing together;
- Managing Information: collect and disseminate essential information on magnitude, burdens, risk factors, available resources and existing services;
- Guidance: technical guidelines, training materials and tools on policy, programmes, legislation and management;
- Policy support: work with WHO regional and country offices to assess, support and strengthen country systems.
Working jointly with Regional and Country Offices, the Non Communicable Disease and Mental Health Cluster supports Member States in promoting health and in preventing premature death and disability from these conditions by addressing their risk factors and determinants and improving health care and rehabilitation services.
