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Challenges in Developing Community Mental Health Services in Sri Lanka

Suman Fernando is at the European Centre for Study of Migration and Social Care (MASC), University of Kent, UK. E-mail: sumanfernando{at}btinternet.com

Chamindra Weerackody

Chamindra Weerackody is at the People's Rural Development Association (PRDA), Colombo, Sri Lanka. E-mail: darshanacw{at}gmail.com

There are several issues to be faced in developing mental health services in South Asia if they are to be culturally and socially appropriate to the needs of the communities in the region. The meanings of mental health relevant to culturally appropriate service development can be obtained by exploring local notions of well-being, systems of care available to people and current practices among those seeking help for mental health problems. Participatory research carried out in communities in Sri Lanka affected by prolonged armed conflict and by the 2004 tsunami clarified the nature of well-being as perceived by communities themselves. Subsequent development of mental health services for Sri Lanka can be based on community consultation, using methodologies and interventions that involve the participation of the communities and their local institutions, and adapting relevant western approaches to the Sri Lankan context.

Journal of Health Management, Vol. 11, No. 1, 195-208 (2009)
DOI: 10.1177/097206340901100113


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