Integrating mental healthcare into primary healthcare services: Saudi Arabia progress and achievements (1995–2022)

Mental health issues affect a substantial portion of the patient population in primary health care (PHC) settings, constituting approximately 60% of cases (WHO/Wonca, 2008). These mental health disorders often complicate the management of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension. Depression and anxiety, despite their prevalence, frequently go undiagnosed and untreated in PHC settings, primarily because of insufficient preparation by PHC physicians in managing these conditions effectively (WHO/Wonca, 2008).