From healthcare to human rights: bridging SDG 3 and SDG 10 through community-based mental health inclusion

Purpose Although mental health is a growing concern around the world and more and more efforts are focused on clinical treatment, much less time is spent on social determinants that impact recovery and mental health. This viewpoint paper aims to call for a shift from a healthcare-centred approach to a human rights-based approach to meeting mental health outcomes that are more sustainable, incorporating Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Design/methodology/approach The conceptual and critical perspective of this viewpoint paper is informed by the synthesis of existing literature on the concepts of mental health recovery, social inclusion, human rights and community-based mental health approaches. Based on international mental health scholarship and international frameworks, the paper explores the shortcomings of treatment-oriented approaches and the need for a role for community engagement, equality and social belonging in meaningful recovery. Findings The paper points out the need to address the stigma, discrimination, social isolation and limited participation of users of mental health services alongside access to mental health services. Community-based mental health practices offer a valuable way to connect health and social rights through offering reachable support, empowerment, community relations and inclusive engagement. Then, integrating SDG 3 and SDG 10 is crucial to create mental health systems that respond to clinical needs and structural inequities. Research limitations/implications This paper is shaped in a conceptual manner as a viewed paper and does not offer empirical validation of community-based inclusion approaches in various social and cultural settings. Further studies are needed to explore the effectiveness and applicability of these methods and approaches with a variety of empirical studies. Social implications It draws attention to the need for a mental health approach, which is a combination of clinical support and social inclusion approaches, with the aim of providing dignity, autonomy and equal participation for individuals, communities and society. Originality/value This perspective helps drive conversations about mental health inclusion related to mental health as a human right, not just a healthcare issue. It highlights the importance of a sustainable mental health system that integrates mental health services with social inclusion measures to ensure people with mental health issues have dignity, autonomy and participation in society.