People with mental disorders are difficult to access

Statistics on the burden of disease in Vietnam recently published shows that non -communicable diseases account for 74% of the total disease burden nationwide. In particular, mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, stress disorders after trauma, alcoholism and stimulants increase rapidly, becoming one of the most worrying medical issues today.

In particular, after Covid-19 pandemic, the impacts from mental loss, economic pressure and life have significantly increased the demand for mental health care, especially in children. However, only about 29% of the patient is officially treated, and one -third of the person who is still carelessly cared for.

One of the biggest barriers for treatment is discrimination and guilt. Many patients, families do not accept diagnostic, even hide the disease, leading to delays in treatment. This makes the patient risk looking for unofficial treatments, causing serious consequences.

Meanwhile, the grassroots health system lacks the necessary support services. According to the 2022 survey of the Department of Medical Examination and Treatment Management, only 61% of the district hospital organized outpatient medical examination and treatment for mental patients; Only 9% of the district facility is capable of inpatient treatment.

Currently, the treatment of mental disorders in Vietnam is mainly based on drugs, while psychological treatment services are very limited. The country has only 143 clinical psychologists and psychotherapy, this service has not been paid by health insurance. The Ministry of Health said that the legal system related to mental health, nutrition and non -communicable diseases is still inadequate. The Law on Prevention and Control issued since 2007 has no longer suitable for reality.

Facing this situation, the Ministry proposed the development of the Law on Prevention and Prevention, focusing on 5 main policies: Mandatory vaccination for people at risk in the epidemic area; Improve nutrition and health; Prevention of mental disorders; prevention of non -communicable diseases; Manage people’s health. According to Dr. Hoang Minh Duc, Director of Preventive Medicine Department, these policies are suitable for the disease model in Vietnam, not only to prevent infectious diseases but also towards non -communicable diseases and mental disorders. Spirit, at the same time control the risk factors.

The Ministry of Health has proposed to add the Law on Prevention and Prevention Law to the Program on Development of Law and Ordinance in 2025 to be considered and promulgated by the National Assembly this year soon.