348 Mental health and psychosocial well-being of migrant workers and their families: policy and practice of Nepal

Abstract EP2.3, e-Poster Terminal 2, September 4, 2025, 10:05 - 10:30 Background About 300’000 men and women leave the country every year for foreign employment in various countries. While it is widely recognized that remittances have significantly contributed to poverty reduction and the development of the country, there is less focus on health, social and economic aspect of migrants and families as they faced significant mental health and psychosocial challenges with low priority of the government in Nepal. This study explored the policy and practices of mental health and psychosocial supports in remote part of the country in 2022-2024. Aim This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of policy interventions of community-based mental health initiatives to address service gaps and challenges in policy implementation, Methods A mixed-method approach was used, combining quantitative data from health facilities and qualitative insights from self-help groups (SHGs), peer-support networks, and stakeholders of seven local municipalities of two provinces. Results The number of health facilities providing mental health services increased from 4 to 24, enabling early diagnosis and intervention. SHGs and peer-support groups played a vital role in creating awareness on timely help seeking behavior, reducing stigma, build and foster support networks of peers. Lively support to member of SHG gained 54% economic stability, increased participation in family and community responsibilities and feeling of being respected. Seven local government developed and implementing mental health and psychosocial support policy and plan to support vulnerable people in the community. Karnali province government also reflected MHPSS policy and strategy that support to develop referrals on mental health service. Because of increased awareness and service access, suicide incident is decreasing. Conclusion Study showed having MHPSS policy for local and province government support to build MHPSS service at community and health system. Thus, more resource and advocacy are needed for policy development to mainstream MHPSS service at local and province level.