The COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on mental health worldwide

For too long, mental disorders have been largely overlooked by health systems. This is despite the fact that mental disorders are found in all countries and in women and men regardless of their status or living condition. If people with mental disorders fail to receive the treatment and care they need, they risk becoming marginalized from society; many descend into poverty and homelessness. According to a recent WHO survey, The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted or halted critical mental health services in 93% of countries worldwide while the demand for mental health is increasing. With the COVID-19 epidemic, there was an escalation in the risk millions face, mainly women from being affected by domestic and gender-based violence which does not only leave a scare on the physical body but also on the mental body. This MMS Bulletin edition highlights the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, missed opportunities and the need to invest in mental health.