Commentary on inclusive multicultural collaboration in global mental health
Where is the global in global mental health? A call for inclusive multicultural collaboration
Key Finding
In an analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials involving 8,421 adolescents in low- and middle-income countries, the authors found that researchers from high-income countries dominated study design, data analysis, and publication. This commentary calls for inclusive multicultural collaboration in global mental health research, arguing that meaningful partnerships between researchers from high-income and low-income countries are essential for developing effective and culturally appropriate interventions.
At a Glance
Study Design
Commentary
Sample Size
N=8,421
Population
Researchers in low- and middle-income countries
Setting
Global
Abstract
This commentary addresses the critical need for inclusive multicultural collaboration in global mental health research. Common mental health disorders account for 45% of the global disease burden on youths aged 15–29, particularly in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) where risk factors such as poverty, limited treatment options and stigma restrict access to care. While global mental health efforts have improved understanding of intervention efficacy and acceptability, there are concerns that these efforts may risk the imposition of Western values and approaches. The authors argue that Western diagnostic taxonomies (DSM-5, ICD) do not capture local experiences of mental illness and call for active involvement of LMIC researchers and community members throughout the research process to ensure research is enacted ethically, democratically, and in service of local communities.
Authors
Osborn, T. L., Wasil, A. R., Weisz, J. R., Kleinman, A., Ndetei, D. M.
Citation & Access
Osborn, T. L., Wasil, A. R., Weisz, J. R., Kleinman, A., Ndetei, D. M. (2020). Where is the global in global mental health? A call for inclusive multicultural collaboration. General Psychiatry.