The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged healthcare services worldwide, requiring rapid decision-making and adaptation to new ways of working. Mental health issues were particularly noted during the pandemic and there continues to be significant impact on the communities during the post pandemic period. COVID-19 also highlighted the issues of equity in access to services especially for those from disadvantaged backgrounds. There is also an increased demand for mental health services within the context of significant workforce shortages and a stressed workforce.
This presentation will provide an overview of opportunities and challenges in mental health service delivery since the pandemic. The presentation will focus on a range of issues from primary prevention of mental health morbidity to management of complex and chronic diseases.
