Abstract

An analysis of the treatment gaps for mental disorders must begin with an acknowledgement that mental disorders cover a wide range of conditions affecting people across the life course and that the distinctions between psychiatric and neurological disorders, widely ingrained in specialist medical contexts, have little relevance in the global health context (Table 37.1). Table 37.1

Childhood

Mental retardation

Conduct and behaviour disorders (e.g. ADHD)

Other neurodevelopmental disabilities (e.g. autism)

Adolescence

Mood disorders (e.g. depression)

Substance use disorders (e.g. alcohol abuse)

Adult

Mood disorders

Psychotic disorders (e.g. schizophrenia) Substance use disorders

Older people

Dementia

Mood disorders