Although the national policy framework of Sri Lanka aligns with many Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), current projections indicate that only 2 of the 17 goals are likely to be achieved by 2030. This chapter examines the intersection of mental health and the SDGs in Sri Lanka, highlighting both progress and persistent challenges. The high prevalence of mental disorders and the recent rise in suicide rates underscore the growing mental health needs of the country. While mental health services have expanded since the 1990s, significant workforce shortages, inequities in access, and outdated legislation continue to impede progress. The 2020–2030 National Mental Health Policy calls for decentralization and community-based care, but implementation is constrained by limited funding and human resources. Mental health literacy remains low, and stigma is widespread, pointing to the need for strengthened education initiatives starting from schools. Broader socioeconomic and environmental determinants—including poverty, unemployment, income and gender inequality, food insecurity, and climate change—exert a bidirectional influence on mental health. This underscores the importance of integrating mental health across all relevant SDG domains. Advancing mental health is not only important for public health and human rights, but also essential for building a fair and sustainable future in Sri Lanka.

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Sustainable Development Goals and Mental Health in Sri Lanka

  • Anuradha Baminiwatta,
  • Aruni Hapangama,
  • Nazneen Nazeer,
  • Miyuru Chandradasa

摘要

Although the national policy framework of Sri Lanka aligns with many Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), current projections indicate that only 2 of the 17 goals are likely to be achieved by 2030. This chapter examines the intersection of mental health and the SDGs in Sri Lanka, highlighting both progress and persistent challenges. The high prevalence of mental disorders and the recent rise in suicide rates underscore the growing mental health needs of the country. While mental health services have expanded since the 1990s, significant workforce shortages, inequities in access, and outdated legislation continue to impede progress. The 2020–2030 National Mental Health Policy calls for decentralization and community-based care, but implementation is constrained by limited funding and human resources. Mental health literacy remains low, and stigma is widespread, pointing to the need for strengthened education initiatives starting from schools. Broader socioeconomic and environmental determinants—including poverty, unemployment, income and gender inequality, food insecurity, and climate change—exert a bidirectional influence on mental health. This underscores the importance of integrating mental health across all relevant SDG domains. Advancing mental health is not only important for public health and human rights, but also essential for building a fair and sustainable future in Sri Lanka.