The investment case on the Prevention and Management of Mental Health Conditions in Jordan presents a detailed analysis of the mental health landscape in the country, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced investment in mental health services.
Mental health, neurological, and substance use (MNS) conditions pose a significant challenge in Jordan, affecting approximately 15.18% of the population and contributing to substantial social and economic burdens.
In 2023, mental health conditions were estimated to cost the Jordanian economy 251.8 million Jordanian dinars (JOD), equivalent to 0.75% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). This figure includes 53.1 million JOD in healthcare expenditures and 198.7 million JOD in lost productivity due to factors such as absenteeism, presenteeism, and premature mortality. The report highlights that these productivity losses underscore the broader economic impact of mental health conditions, affecting not just the individuals but also the overall socioeconomic development of the country.
The report provides a strong economic argument for investing in mental health interventions. It demonstrates that by scaling up evidence-based interventions, Jordan could achieve significant health and economic benefits. For example, every 1 JOD invested in the treatment of epilepsy, alcohol use disorders, and depression is expected to yield returns ranging from 4.6 and 15.1 JOD. Over the period from 2023 to 2040, these interventions could save more than 2,529 lives and result in nearly 313,138 healthy life years gained. This would contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.4, which aims to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases and promote mental well-being.
The report also emphasizes the importance of integrating mental health services into Jordan's primary healthcare system and ensuring that these services are accessible to all segments of the population, including vulnerable groups such as refugees. It calls for increased awareness and efforts to reduce the stigma associated with mental health conditions, which often prevents individuals from seeking the help they need.
Furthermore, the report recommends that mental health services should be covered under national health insurance and that local governments, workplaces, schools, and community organizations should prioritize mental health prevention, promotion, and treatment. The report stresses the need for sustained, long-term investment in mental health services, arguing that such investments would not only improve public health outcomes but also contribute to the country’s broader economic and social development goals.
Overall, the report provides a compelling case for why Jordan should prioritize mental health as a key component of its public health and development agenda, highlighting the significant returns on investment that can be achieved through strategic and sustained efforts in this area.
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