Advancements Towards Better Mental Health in Saudi Arabia: A Narrative Review and Critical Analysis

Abstract

Mental health problems persistently present worrying societal burden, which call for dynamic interventions through strategic plans of the national healthcare systems. Unfortunately, reports indicate that there is an increase in the prevalence of mental distresses, and Saudi Arabia is one of countries with a high prevalence and burden of mental health conditions. This narrative review explores the progress made by the Saudi healthcare systems toward improving service delivery through a historical perspective. The progress, in terms of policy and intervention programs, is analyzed alongside the practical gains, as perceived by the service users through the lens of Social Ecological Model. It is apparent that the Saudi healthcare system has made remarkable progress towards improving healthcare service delivery, quality and access. However, current evidence still highlights significant barriers towards the full realization of the national vision in mental health.