The Development of Psychiatry in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus from Past to Present

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), which is located in the northern part of the island of Cyprus, has a complex history and was established with great difficulties. Like many other domains, the field of psychiatry was rebuilt after the wars in the TRNC. Hospital-based mental health services have continued in the TRNC since the first hospital was established after the war of 1974. The current mental health law was created during the period of British administration and anew draft law is now being considered in the parliament. Rates of suicide increased in the TRNC from 1992 to 2012, and domestic violence, homophobia, transphobia, and psychoactive substance abuse are also important problems. However, many institutions now carry out preventive and rehabilitative studies in the field of mental health and this is a promising and significant development. Conducting a study which determines the mental health profile of the TRNC is important for shaping future studies in the field of mental health. In addition, it is important in terms of designing initiatives to make mental health services more community-based. Creating a database for scientific studies will also contribute to a better and more systematic organization of the information. This will also help nurses receiving postgraduate education in the field of mental health and psychiatric nursing to improve the care given to individuals/patients in institutions providing mental health services. The number of nurses working in psychiatry should be increased and programs given in order to allow them to become more properly qualified.