Bangladesh faces a substantial treatment gap, with limited mental health infrastructure and workforce. Recent policy developments like the Mental Health Act (2018) and National Mental Health Strategic Plan (2020–2030) represent positive steps, but require increased funding, expanded facilities, workforce development, improved referral systems, and greater awareness to effectively address the country’s mental health challenges. Despite Bangladesh’s progress in various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) targets, significant challenges remain in mental health, with approximately 18.7% of adults and 12.6% of children suffering from mental disorders. This chapter explores the intersection of SDGs and mental health in Bangladesh, highlighting the bidirectional relationship between mental well-being and sustainable development. The chapter also examines direct connections of mental health to SDG 3 targets on reducing suicide rates and treating substance use disorders, while also exploring indirect links to other goals, including poverty reduction, education, gender equality, and climate action.

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Sustainable Development Goals and Mental Health in Bangladesh

  • Md. Abdullah Saeed Khan,
  • S. M. Yasir Arafat

摘要

Bangladesh faces a substantial treatment gap, with limited mental health infrastructure and workforce. Recent policy developments like the Mental Health Act (2018) and National Mental Health Strategic Plan (2020–2030) represent positive steps, but require increased funding, expanded facilities, workforce development, improved referral systems, and greater awareness to effectively address the country’s mental health challenges. Despite Bangladesh’s progress in various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) targets, significant challenges remain in mental health, with approximately 18.7% of adults and 12.6% of children suffering from mental disorders. This chapter explores the intersection of SDGs and mental health in Bangladesh, highlighting the bidirectional relationship between mental well-being and sustainable development. The chapter also examines direct connections of mental health to SDG 3 targets on reducing suicide rates and treating substance use disorders, while also exploring indirect links to other goals, including poverty reduction, education, gender equality, and climate action.