Towards Practical Guidelines for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support after Emergencies in the Western Pacific Region

Abstract

Introduction:

The Western Pacific Region, comprised of 37 diverse countries and areas, is one of the world’s areas most prone to be affected by disaster. Seven of the top ten countries most at risk of a natural disaster are in this region. The Regional Agenda for Implementing the Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2020 in the Western Pacific identifies mental health in disasters and emergencies as a priority area and calls for a social movement for action on mental health and well-being. To increase understanding of and need for mental health and psychosocial support in emergency situations, regional guidelines are necessary. It is unclear to what degree international guidelines are applicable in this region.

Aim:

To synthesize the contents of available evidence-based guidelines and assess their potential to address the mental health and psychosocial needs of people in emergency settings in the Western Pacific Region.

Methods:

A systematic literature review of existing guidelines for mental health and psychosocial support in disasters and emergencies was conducted. Using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II instrument, the quality of each guideline was determined covering the following: (1.) scope and purpose, (2.) stakeholder involvement, (3.) rigor of development, (4.) clarity of presentation, (5.) applicability, and (6.) editorial independence.

Results:

The results provide an overview of the quality, number, and specificity of available guidelines. A framework was developed to categorize these guidelines on each stage of the disaster management cycle (prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery) while considering their guidance regarding coordination, monitoring, communication, human resources, and connection with regular health services.

Discussion:

The framework and its implications for further research and development are presented at the conference. We will specifically focus on the question, “What is needed to move from a reactive to a more proactive stance in policy and practice?”