The Child and Adolescent Mental Health Program, supported by UNICEF Nepal, is being implemented in Surkhet District of Karnali Province to strengthen access to quality mental health services for children and adolescents. The program was initially launched as a pilot initiative from September 2023 to December 2024 in four municipalities—Birendranagar, Gurbhakot, Panchapuri, and Bheriganga—as well as at Salkot Primary Health Center and Mehelkuna Hospital. Following its successful implementation, the program has been extended until December 2026.
The program aims to address the growing mental health needs of children and adolescents by integrating mental health services into the primary healthcare system and establishing sustainable service delivery mechanisms at the local level. It focuses on strengthening the capacity of health workers, improving early identification and management of mental health conditions, and ensuring timely access to specialized care through teleconsultation and referral pathways linking local health facilities with provincial and federal-level institutions.
Implemented by the Centre for Mental Health and Counselling – Nepal (CMC-Nepal), the program works closely with local governments, health facilities, and communities to promote accessible, child-friendly, and quality mental health services. During the pilot phase, technical support was provided by the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Department of Kanti Children’s Hospital through CWIN Nepal. Currently, CMC-Nepal continues to lead both the implementation and technical support of the program.
Through this initiative, CMC-Nepal is contributing to the development of a stronger and more responsive mental health care system that ensures children and adolescents receive the support they need to thrive and reach their full potential.