Mental Health Budget Inadequate

Deputy for social affairs at the State Welfare Organization, Habibollah Masoudi Farid, says at least 10% of the health sector’s annual budget should be allocated to mental health programs. The current amount is hardly 3%.  “Moreover, the current budget goes mainly for treatment and rehabilitation services rather than the more important preventive and diagnostic programs, he was quoted by SalamtNews as saying.

Data show 50% of psychological disorders begin before the age of 14, which further underlines the need and significance of addressing psychological health issues from an early age, he said.

The official suggested that the Ministry of Education and Health Ministry collaborate in identifying children with anxiety, depression, and other psychological disorders from an early age because early detection lowers the cost of treatment.