Bolivia approves National Mental Health Plan 2026-2030

Bolivia’s Ministry of Health and Sports has approved the National Mental Health Plan 2026-2030. Approved via Ministerial Resolution No. 0531, the initiative aims to provide free, community-based mental health services through the country’s primary healthcare network.

The plan focuses on decentralizing care by training doctors and nurses at local neighborhood health centers using the Pan American Health Organization’s mhGAP program. This approach is designed to identify and treat anxiety, depression, severe stress, and substance abuse at the first level of care. Key priorities include suicide prevention and combating cyberbullying through emotional support networks in schools and universities.

Under the Unified Health System (SUS), consultations, diagnoses, and necessary medications for mental and neurological disorders will be provided free of charge. The strategy also prioritizes vulnerable groups, including children, adolescents, women victims of violence, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Implementation will be coordinated with departmental health services to ensure cultural and linguistic relevance across different municipalities.