Mental health care needs are rising across the WHO European Region, placing growing strain on health systems already affected by long waiting times, workforce shortages and gaps in coverage. To help countries improve affordable access to mental health services, WHO/Europe has published four new policy briefs that examine how health financing reforms can reduce barriers to care, particularly for people with low incomes and for children and adolescents.
Drawing on experiences from Czechia, Estonia, Finland and Ireland, the briefs demonstrate that targeted financing and service delivery reforms can significantly improve access to mental health care. Despite differing national contexts, the cases show that a clear vision for service delivery, supported by stable funding, strong governance and upfront investment in workforce and infrastructure, is essential to reduce waiting times, strengthen early intervention and protect people from financial hardship when seeking care.
The briefs also highlight the importance of strengthening primary and community-based mental health services to improve continuity of care and address unmet needs. Aligning provider payment systems with reform objectives, reducing or removing user charges, and improving coordination between health and social care sectors have proven effective in expanding access, particularly for vulnerable populations. Digital tools have also played a role in extending reach, although careful attention is needed to ensure safety, quality and equity.
Country experiences illustrate diverse but transferable approaches. Czechia has expanded community mental health centres using targeted funding, improving quality of life for people with severe mental health conditions and reducing hospitalizations. Estonia has increased the role of primary care through financing reforms, multidisciplinary teams and digital consultations. Finland has focused on early intervention for children and adolescents by introducing waiting time guarantees and expanding mental health services in primary care. Ireland has improved access for people with low incomes through community-based counselling programmes that have reduced risks of self-harm and suicide.
Overall, the WHO/Europe briefs underline that improving access to mental health care requires sustained political commitment, continuous monitoring and evaluation, and a focus on financial protection as a core element of universal health coverage. By sharing practical lessons from these four countries, WHO/Europe aims to support wider reform efforts across the region to ensure mental health care is accessible, affordable and equitable for all.
