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The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Adopts the Law “On the Mental Health Care System”

The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine has passed the Law “On the Mental Health Care System” with a majority vote. This landmark decision advances the development of a people-centered psychosocial support system that will become more accessible, closer to communities, and of higher quality. The law significantly broadens the concept of mental health, presenting it as not merely a medical issue but a socially significant field in its own right.

Key Objectives of the Law

The newly adopted law aims to:

  • Provide Ukrainians with access to high-quality mental health services.
  • Protect the rights of individuals with mental disorders and other mental health challenges.
  • Prevent the emergence of mental disorders and psychosocial risks impacting mental health.

The draft law was developed by the Committee on National Health, Medical Care, and Medical Insurance in collaboration with the Mental Health Coordination Center under the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, with contributions from leading experts and World Health Organization (WHO) support.

What the Law Changes

  1. Redefining Mental Health: it rejects the widespread misconception that mental health issues are solely the concern of the healthcare system. This shift helps reduce stigma and expands service accessibility.
  2. Professional Development and Certification: the law introduces a system of continuous professional development and certification for mental health specialists.
  3. Standardized Psychological Assistance lays the foundation for delivering psychological help based on unified standards, defines a list of services, and establishes mechanisms for intersectoral cooperation.
  4. Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs): the law officially recognizes SROs, which have significantly advanced the field for years.
  5. Workplace Mental Health: employers are now authorized to develop and implement psychosocial support programs for employees in the workplace.

International Experience and National Initiatives

The law incorporates international practices, including the developments of Ukraine’s national mental health program, “How Are You?” initiated by First Lady Olena Zelenska.

Mental Health in Ukraine

Mental health, alongside inflation, poverty, and unemployment, are among the most pressing global challenges today. In Ukraine, this issue is compounded by over a decade of war. Beyond physical losses and destruction, the ongoing conflict has caused invisible wounds that deeply affect people’s quality of life.

Currently:

  • 40-50% of Ukrainians need psychological support.
  • 78% have never consulted a mental health specialist, although 40% are open to seeking help in the future.
  • At least 1.2 million Ukrainians are veterans with unique experiences of participating in combat.

Mental health is the foundation of societal resilience.

(Information sourced from official channels of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine and the Mental Health Coordination Center under the Cabinet of Ministers.)