International Consultant - Mental Health, Brain Health And Substance Use

Organizational Context

The World Health Organization (WHO) is addressing the critical global mental health crisis, particularly in the South-East Asia Region where 1 in 7 people are affected. The WHO Special Initiative for Mental Health (SIMH) aims to expand community-based care to 100 million more people, focusing on Bangladesh and Nepal. This role supports policy reform and capacity building to integrate mental health services into primary healthcare.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to support the WHO Regional Office for Mental Health, Brain Health, and Substance Use in advancing mental health initiatives within the South-East Asia Region. The primary focus is on providing technical cooperation to Bangladesh and Nepal to adapt and implement WHO's mental health guidance and technical packages. The role involves supporting the development of standard operating procedures for district-level mental health services, establishing monitoring and evaluation plans, and assisting in the creation of policy briefs and technical documents. The consultant will contribute to scaling up quality, rights-based mental health care, particularly for vulnerable populations, and ensuring progress is documented and reported effectively to meet global and regional requirements.

Responsibilities

Provide technical cooperation to Bangladesh and Nepal for the WHO Special Initiative for Mental Health (SIMH), including adapting WHO guidance and technical packages to national contexts and developing SOPs for district-level service delivery. Develop and support the implementation of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) plans for SIMH, tracking country-level indicators and contributing to global reporting. Offer technical assistance for creating policy briefs, technical documents, and evidence-based materials to support advocacy and policy dialogue. Document and report on SIMH implementation progress, including country achievements and lessons learned. Conduct field visits to support service rollouts as needed. Support prevention and reduction of mental disorders through promoting healthy lifestyles, strengthening community-based services, and contributing to suicide prevention. Participate in and help prepare reports for regional and online meetings.

Work Experience

Essential: At least 10 years of senior-level experience in mental health and substance use policies and programs, including a minimum of five years at the international level. Desirable: Experience in managing community-based public health programs in developing countries.

Skills

Communication skills, ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders, strong advocacy and coordination skills, ability to work independently and collaboratively, ability to align with strategic goals.

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