Future Mental Well-being: Paths to More Joy and Contentment
In a world increasingly focused on mental health, countries across the globe share a common priority: early intervention, especially among youth, personalized care, and stronger community and systemic support. This article explores mental health initiatives in various countries, highlighting the unique approaches each nation takes to address this critical issue.
Iceland
Icelanders face life's tribulations with a positive outlook, thanks to their unofficial motto "Þetta reddast" - "everything will be okay in the end." This optimistic mindset helps them navigate through challenges, making Iceland an interesting case study in mental health resilience.
United States
In the United States, about 24% of adults experienced a mental illness in the past year, with substance use disorders accounting for 18%. The mental health and substance abuse industry is estimated to generate $31.4 billion in 2025, but faces challenges from uncertain funding programs, particularly Medicaid, which is the largest payer for behavioural health services.
United Kingdom
The UK, along with countries like Canada, Australia, and the US, is part of a group with relatively advanced healthcare systems. Mental health policy in the UK is strongly influenced by global trends, emphasizing early and youth-centered intervention. However, young women between the ages of 16-24 years are 3 times more likely to have mental health issues than men, highlighting the need for targeted initiatives. The UK government is investing in mental health charities, such as Mind and Samaritans, to support those in need.
Canada and Australia
Both Canada and Australia follow global trends, focusing on early intervention and personalized care models. Mental health strategies in these countries increasingly integrate community-based supports and address social determinants of health. Organizations like Beyond Blue in Australia offer resources, school-based programs, and training guides to support individuals with serious mental health issues.
Bhutan
Bhutan, a country with more vulnerable diet and health profiles, faces challenges in its healthcare infrastructure. Its mental health initiatives are less documented but are likely influenced by the WHO’s broader calls for equitable and inclusive care frameworks. Bhutan introduced the Gross National Happiness Index in the 1970s, using wellbeing as a measure of the country's progress, and psychological wellbeing is one of the 9 domains that is measured to assess development.
Global Context
The Fourth UN High-level Meeting in September 2025 highlighted a political declaration focusing on mental health as part of the noncommunicable diseases agenda. Governments worldwide were urged to renew commitments to mental health promotion, sustainable financing, whole-of-government collaboration, and tackling social and economic inequities.
Common Challenges
Despite the global focus on mental health, resource availability and healthcare system maturity vary significantly across countries, with significant challenges remaining. The COVID-19 pandemic increased the prevalence of anxiety and depression by 25%, underscoring the need for continued support and investment in mental health initiatives.
Conclusion
In a world where mental health is increasingly prioritized, early intervention, personalized care, and community support are key components of successful mental health strategies. However, resource availability and healthcare system maturity vary significantly, with significant challenges remaining globally. It is crucial for governments, organizations, and individuals to continue working towards addressing these challenges and promoting mental health and wellbeing for all.
Science and health-and-wellness are integral parts of mental health initiatives around the globe. For example, researchers in Iceland are studying the unofficial motto "Þetta reddast" to understand the factors contributing to the nation's mental health resilience. Similarly, in the United States, scientists are examining the impact of substance use disorders on mental health. Additionally, global mental health initiatives seek to integrate mental health into health-and-wellness programs to promote overall wellbeing, as exemplified by Bhutan's Gross National Happiness Index, which includes psychological wellbeing as a measure of development.
