“I will definitely continue to knock on every door and send hope to people. I find my everyday joy in seeing people with depression get better. ”
System Strengthening - Case Study
BasicNeeds Lao PDR has been actively collaborating with the government to enhance mental health services in Vientiane Province. Significant efforts have been made to integrate mental health into general health services, particularly in Vientiane Province, where BasicNeeds has been involved in training village health volunteers and health workers.
During the project exit strategy training in September 2023, 36 partners from the province participated. It was encouraging to hear from the Chief of the Curative and Rehabilitation Division and the Chiefs of the four District Health Offices that mental health treatment will continue to be supported, regardless of funding, because it is their mandate. Additionally, the Director urged provincial staff to prepare early project proposals on mental health to attract funding from interested donors. A province level WhatsApp group has been promoted to ensure multisectoral cooperation and sustainability.
Image - Focus group discussion with volunteers in Namone, Lao PDR