International learnings on mental health plans, policies and implementation: Findings from an informal data collection exercise

This briefing paper reports on developments in mental health strategy and policy in selected countries. The aim of the exercise was to identify leading-edge mental health strategy, policy, plans and practices to inform the development of a new Northern Ireland mental health strategy. Information was obtained by contacting leading public sector and NGO experts from countries recommended as having progressive approaches to either mentalhealth prevention and/or mental health services. As a small-scale exercise, it is illustrative rather than comprehensive.