Mental Health and Policy Agenda

Abstract

Mental health has gained increasing attention as a critical component of public health and well-being, yet its integration into national policy agendas remains a challenge worldwide. This study examines how mental health has been incorporated into Qatar’s national policy framework, utilizing Kingdon’s Multiple Streams Framework (MSF) to analyze the convergence of problem recognition, policy proposals, and political influences that have shaped the mental health agenda in the country. Given that approximately 25% of adults attending primary healthcare consultations in Qatar experience a mental disorder (MoPH, 2018), this study underscores the urgency of addressing mental health as a public health priority. Despite the development of national strategies, including the Qatar National Mental Health Strategy (2013–2018) and the National Health Strategies (2018–2022, 2024–2030), mental health services remain underutilized due to stigma, workforce shortages, and fragmented service delivery. The COVID-19 pandemic further emphasized the need for an integrated mental health framework, exposing gaps in accessibility and crisis response. Through a content analysis of national policy documents, legislation, and media sources, this research explores the policy formation process, identifies key policy windows that have enabled the advancement of mental health, and highlights missed opportunities for systemic reform. Findings reveal that while Qatar has made significant progress in embedding mental health within its broader health and social policies, implementation challenges persist. Stigma, cultural barriers, and limited intersectoral coordination continue to hinder comprehensive mental health integration. The study recommends enhanced policy coherence, increased investment in community-based mental health services, and the development of public awareness campaigns to mitigate stigma. Strengthening intersectoral collaboration among healthcare, education, and labor sectors is also essential for sustaining long-term mental health improvements. By applying Kingdon’s MSF, this research contributes both theoretically to policy studies and practically by offering policymakers actionable insights to reinforce Qatar’s mental health governance and improve service accessibility for all population groups.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	HBKU College of Public Policy