Tackling the global mental health challenge: a psychosomatic medicine/consultation-liaison psychiatry perspective

Abstract

Background: Consultation-liaison (C-L) psychiatry, informed by principles of psychosomatic medicine, is well-positioned to address the global impact of mental disorders through primary care C-L models.

Objective/method: The authors review the international burden of mental disorders, highlighting medical comorbidity, undertreatment, and the rationale for enhancing primary-care management.

Results: C-L psychiatry fosters the skills required for global mental health work. The authors describe successful C-L models developed in a low-income country (Ethiopia) and an under-resourced region of a high-income country (Australia).

Conclusion: C-L psychiatrists have the potential to marshal their unique skill-set to reduce the global burden of mental disorders.