Inter-American Mental Health Week calls for intersectoral action to improve mental health in the Americas

More than 185 million people live with mental health conditions in the Americas. Addressing the challenge requires action beyond the health sector.

Washington, D.C., 6 October 2026 (PAHO) – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Organization of American States (OAS) are marking Inter-American Mental Health Week 2026 (October 5–9) with a call to strengthen intersectoral action to improve mental health and well-being across the Americas, where more than 185 million people live with a mental health condition.

Under the theme “From commitment to action: Advancing mental health through intersectoral action in the Americas,” the Week seeks to mobilize governments, international organizations, civil society organizations and people with lived experience to accelerate the implementation of policies and actions that promote, protect and improve mental health throughout the Region.

Mental health remains one of the Region’s major public health challenges, with millions of people continuing to face barriers to accessing quality services and support.

“Everyone has the right to the highest attainable standard of health, including mental health. Yet more than 185 million people in the Americas live with a mental health condition, and most do not receive the care they need,” said PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa. “The health sector cannot address this challenge alone. We must work together across sectors to promote, protect and improve the mental health of all people,” he added.

This year’s observance comes as countries across the Americas have reaffirmed the importance of mental health as a public policy and sustainable development priority. In June 2026, the OAS General Assembly, meeting in Panama City, adopted the Declaration on Improving Mental Health in the Americas through Intersectoral and Whole-of-Government Action, which recognizes mental health as fundamental to human development, social cohesion, productivity and sustainable development.