Health security and mental health are deeply interconnected, as public health emergencies and large-scale threats often trigger widespread psychological distress and strain health systems. Global health threats, such as pandemics or outbreaks, act as significant stressors that increase the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. Modern health security is increasingly viewing mental health not just as a medical issue, but as a critical component of national and global stability, essential for economic productivity and social order.

Mental health remains a global health challenge. It has caused a global economic loss of $2.5 trillion in 2010,  expected to increase to $6 trillion by 2030. The burden of mental conditions is more pronounced in low-income countries, particularly in Asia and the Pacific. This webinar discussed the mental health context in Asia and the Pacific and the global experience to inform priorities for investing in mental health in the region.