Mental Health Impact Assessment in Finland and Globally

Abstract The first presentation will outline development work within the Finnish Mental Health Strategy 2020-2030 describing the process of identifying and developing a suitable MHIA framework for the Finnish context. Background Mental health is largely shaped by the social, economic and physical environments in which people live their lives. Mental health promotion therefore relies on broad-based actions over multiple sectors, which can be difficult to measure. An important objective within the Finnish Mental Health Strategy was to find a suitable MHIA framework to integrate onto the local level. Methods A systematic literature review employed a search strategy in six databases, including all quantitative and qualitative study designs using a specific framework or model striving to evaluate the impact of a population-based action on mental health or mental wellbeing. Results A total of 145 records were identified, with a final 15 articles being included for analysis. The systematic review identified five international frameworks for MHIA with only one focusing on positive mental health. Conclusions Narrative synthesis indicated that MHIA is useful for engaging diverse stakeholders, examining both positive and negative impacts, and promoting mental health awareness. However, MHIA are time-consuming and require significant resources. MHIA implementation necessitates clear terminology, and avoiding jargon is crucial. Advocacy is needed to promote awareness and justify the approach across different sectors. A Finnish approach based on existing models was developed. The aim of the approach is to integrate a MHIA model into other impact assessment actions conducted by municipalities and welfare areas.