21st century mental health care: What it looks like and how to achieve it

Abstract

A 21st century approach to mental health is urgently required by millions of individuals and families who are unable to access the mental health care and support that they need and will deliver signifi cant economic and social benefi ts to all of us. Mental health is national wealth. This means not just a bigger GDP but a bigger GHI or Gross Happiness Index too. Lives will be saved, there will be many fewer bereaved parents, and a happier more productive society. A 21st century approach to mental health is achievable through a fi ve-point plan on leadership, funding, access, skills and standards, with the aim of ending unequal access to quality care between mental and physical health by 2020..