Strengthening mental health care in the penitentiary system of Ukraine: experience from mhGAP implementation (2021–2025)

Abstract

People deprived of liberty represent one of the most underserved and clinically vulnerable population groups with regard to mental, neurological and substance use (MNS) conditions worldwide. Evidence consistently demonstrates that the burden of mental disorders in custodial settings substantially exceeds that observed in the general population, reflecting the cumulative effects of social vulnerability, exposure to violence, problematic substance use and the psychosocial environment of detention. International studies highlight elevated rates of depression, psychoses and suicidal behaviour among incarcerated populations, particularly in lowand middle-income countries. These patterns underscore the need for structured, system-level responses to mental health needs within custodial environments, beyond reliance on specialist psychiatric services alone.