BasicNeeds is in the process of starting its programme in Lao PDR.

Mental health issues are still new for the people of Lao PDR.

The population has a strong belief in spirits and mental illnesses are often thought to be caused by the possession of evil spirits. Medical professionals are not trained to recognise mental health problems, so consequently many psychosomatic symptoms are dismissed as inconsequential.

There is no mental health policy, mental health programme, or any special programmes for populations affected by mental health illnesses or conditions. There are only two public clinics delivering mental health services to patients: the mental health unit of Mahosot hospital and the mental health unit of the Military Hospital, both in the capital, Vientiane.

Together, these make a total of 29 beds mental health beds, or 0.03 beds per 10,000 people. The whole country only has 2 psychiatrists, one neurologist, 8 general practitioners, 5 medical assistants and 12 nurses. This tiny number of staff means that community-based mental health care cannot be delivered and research cannot be undertaken. Drug availability is still limited.

Mahosot Hospital provides limited services to those who can afford to travel to it. Since mental health services are only available in Vientiane, the treatment access for people with mental health living in countryside is severely limited.

To solve these problems, BasicNeeds is soon to start activities. Through BasicNeeds we hope to promote mental health amongst the community through consultation workshops. We will also train medical staff, volunteers and the general population on mental health disorders and how to diagnose them, as well as carrying out research.

To improve the quality of life of mentally ill patients we will integrate psychosocial treatment into the current health service, as well as strengthening the partnership amongst inter-sector professionals, users and carers. We also hope to develop a mental health policy in the country.