Shekhar Saxena

2017-05-09 Shekhar Saxena 4

Shekhar Saxena is a prominent figure in the field of global health, particularly known for his extensive work in mental health. He has served as the Director of the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse at the World Health Organization (WHO) from 2010 to 2018. During his tenure, Saxena was instrumental in advocating for the integration of mental health into global health and development agendas. His efforts have significantly contributed to raising awareness about mental health issues worldwide, leading to the implementation of various initiatives aimed at improving mental health care and policy.

Early Life and Education

Shekhar Saxena was born in India, where he also received his medical degree. He furthered his education by specializing in psychiatry, recognizing early in his career the profound impact of mental health on overall well-being and the importance of addressing mental health issues within the healthcare system.

Career

Saxena's career has been marked by his commitment to improving mental health globally. Before his role at WHO, he worked in various capacities related to mental health in India, contributing to national mental health programs and research. His work has always been characterized by a focus on evidence-based approaches to mental health care, emphasizing the need for comprehensive and accessible mental health services.

At WHO, Saxena led efforts to develop and implement the Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2020, which aimed to promote mental well-being, prevent mental disorders, provide care, enhance recovery, promote human rights, and reduce the mortality, morbidity, and disability for persons with mental disorders. This plan was notable for its ambitious goals and its holistic approach to mental health, recognizing the complex interplay of social, economic, and biological factors in mental health and illness.

Contributions and Legacy

Saxena's contributions to mental health have been widely recognized. He has been a vocal advocate for treating mental health with the same urgency and importance as physical health, arguing that mental health is an integral part of health and should not be overlooked or marginalized. His work has helped to destigmatize mental health conditions and has encouraged countries to develop policies and allocate resources towards mental health care.

One of Saxena's significant contributions is his emphasis on the global burden of mental disorders and the need for a comprehensive strategy to address this issue. He has highlighted the economic and social costs of untreated mental health conditions, not only to individuals but also to societies at large. Under his leadership, WHO has published several influential reports on depression, suicide, and other mental health conditions, providing valuable data and recommendations for policymakers, healthcare providers, and the public.

Post-WHO Career

After leaving WHO, Saxena has continued to work in the field of mental health, engaging in academic, advisory, and advocacy roles. He is involved with various organizations and initiatives aimed at improving mental health care and policy both globally and in his home country of India.

See Also

• World Health Organization
• Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2020
• Global health
• Psychiatry