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BasicNeeds Mental Health and Development Model

Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, Tanzania, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Vietnam, Lao PDR, China, South Sudan, Multi-Regional

BasicNeeds implements a comprehensive Mental Health and Development Model integrating health, socio-economic, and community solutions across 12 countries in Africa and Asia. The five-module approach includes: capacity building, community mental health services, livelihoods support, research, and collaboration. Over 650,000 people reached including those with mental illness, epilepsy, and caregivers. Results show 84% increase in treatment access, 75% symptom reduction, and work participation increasing from 52% to 80%. Self-help groups (622 active) provide peer support and economic activities.

Behavior Goal

Empower people with mental health conditions and epilepsy to live and work successfully through integrated health and livelihood support

Implementers & Partners

  • BasicNeeds Network
  • CBM
  • Local Partner Organizations

Donors & Sponsors

  • UK FCDO
  • European Commission
  • Skoll Foundation

Key Takeaways

  • 1Five-module model: capacity building, community MH, livelihoods, research, collaboration
  • 284% increase in treatment access, 75% symptom reduction
  • 3Work participation increased from 52% to 80%
  • 4622 self-help groups with 25,000+ members
  • 5Addresses both mental illness AND epilepsy together

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