EviMaPS: Evidence to Improve Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Programs and Policies to Mitigate the Impacts of Disasters

Introduction: The EviMaPS study aimed to identify the state of knowledge and practice on disaster mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) initiatives globally. This study was conducted through a collaboration between a multinational team of investigators and the World Health Organization (WHO). Methods: Phase 1 consisted of a key informant survey to identify current and emerging MHPSS policies and programs to reduce mental health risks and enhance protective factors before and after disasters. Phase 2 consisted of a rapid literature review to identify empirical research on the impacts of disaster-related MHPSS initiatives. Programs identified in each stage were mapped against the MHPSS Minimum Services Package (MSP) Checklist, the Inter Agency Standing Committee (IASC) Intervention Pyramid, and the WHO Health Emergency and Disaster Risk Management Framework. Results: Phase 1 elicited information about 92 programs and 9 policies in use between 2007 and 2024 across 19 countries and regions. Phase 2 elicited 33 primary research articles published between 2007 and 2024 across 13 countries and regions. Conclusion: The field of disaster mental health is dynamic and evolving. This presentation will underscore the need for an ongoing commitment to recognizing developing practices and building evidence on mental health and psychosocial support initiatives in disaster settings. The implications of the present findings for leading agencies such as the WHO will also be presented, for example, concerning updating guidelines, frameworks, and setting priorities to address research gaps.