Why Global Mental Health Matters Locally

We are committed to global mental health research—it benefits people all over the world, including across the US. Innovations from global mental health research—such as task-sharing and culturally adapting interventions to meet the needs of local populations—have already impacted behavioral health care and research in the US.

Bi‑Directional Learning & Mutual Capacity Building

We reject any notion that knowledge flows only from high-income to low-income countries. Instead, we embrace bi-directional learning and mutual capacity building (Jack, Myers, Regenauer & Magidson, 2020). At GMAP, we strive to take insights learned from global research projects into local research projects. This equitable exchange strengthens both global and local behavioral health systems. We have worked on developing best practice models others can also follow in promoting mutual capacity building (Jack et al., Global Health Research and Policy, 2024). Across all of our projects, lessons learned globally have informed our local work and vice versa.

Our Call to Action

We join global leaders in urging policymakers to support global mental health research—not just as an international imperative, but as a vital investment in improving behavioral health equity around the globe. As Dr. Peter Kilmarx, Fogarty International Center Acting Director, reminds us:

“The health of Americans is inseparable from the health of the world.”