Mental Healthcare in the Gulf Cooperation Council: A Review and Comparative Analysis of Policies, Practices and Challenges

Abstract This review analyse the mental healthcare systems in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, comparing them with five developed nations to identify the gaps and barriers. The desk review was conducted to examines mental health definitions, laws, regulations, measures and insurance provisions across these countries. The findings reveal significant disparities between GCC and industrialised countries in mental health legislation, data reporting and service delivery. GCC states face challenges, including limited data availability, cultural stigma, shortage of mental health professionals, inadequate community-based programs and restricted insurance coverage. This review highlights the importance of GCC countries developing comprehensive mental health laws, enhancing data collection, expanding community-based care, increasing the mental health workforce and expanding insurance coverage. Despite overall healthcare advancements, mental health remains underdeveloped in GCC nations, requiring greater attention and resource allocation.