A Review of Policy Analysis: Gender Equality in Saudi Arabia’s Mental Health Policy
Nadia Alhamd Alghamdi
School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Scotland.
Kirsty Dunn
School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Scotland.
Deborah Cairns
School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Scotland.
Craig A. Melville *
School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Scotland.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study employs the Walt and Gilson Policy Triangle Method to analyse the mental health policy in Saudi Arabia and explore the position of gender equality within the content context, process and development of mental health. Four relevant articles were reviewed, focusing on policy development, legislation, human rights, financing, organisational integration, and women's mental health challenges. The national mental health policy in Saudi Arabia highlights access to care, quality of services, awareness, prevention, and family support, with 4% of the healthcare budget allocated to mental health services. However, gender-specific needs and experiences of women may need to be adequately addressed. Contextual factors such as cultural norms, religious beliefs, and gender segregation shape mental health policy in Saudi Arabia. The process of policy development involves collaboration between the Ministry of Health and various stakeholders, incorporating international guidelines. The study also underlines the Transformational Plan of Saudi Vision 2030 and its influence on mental health policy. However, gender equality actions are not explicitly addressed in the current policies. The research shows the need for comprehensive policy improvements to ensure gender equality in mental health care and provide appropriate support for women's mental health needs in Saudi Arabia.
Keywords: Mental health policy; gender equality, Saudi Arabia, Walt and Gilson policy triangle, mental health services