Reform of mental health care in Serbia: ten steps plus one

Disastrous events in the country and the region caused a 13.5% increasein the prevalence of mental and behavioral disorders in Serbia in the lastfew years, thus making them the second largest public health problem. Dueto prolonged adversities, the health system has deteriorated and is facingspecific challenges. However, the reform of mental health care has been initiated,with a lot of positive movements such as the preparation of a national policyfor mental health care and a law for protection of mentally ill individuals.The transformation of mental health services has started, with an accent oncommunity care, antistigma campaigns and continuing education. Based on anassessment carried out by the National Committee on Mental Health, serviceprovision, number of professionals working in services, funding arrangements,pathways into care, user/carer involvement and other specific issues are reported.