Community mental health care in Mongolia: adapting best practice to local culture

Objectives: The aim of this paper is to describe the development of community mental health care in Mongolia, as exemplified by a best practice model of care in the community. Conclusion: Through the Asia-Pacific Community Mental Health Development Project, Mongolia has identified local best practice such as the 'Ger' project that provides community psychosocial rehabilitation, which has been adapted according to local conditions and culture. Cultural considerations are important in producing effective clinical outcomes and a better quality of life for people with mental illness. The project has also shown that it is possible for persons with mental illness to receive rehabilitation effectively in local community settings. Inter-sectoral collaboration with multiple stakeholders is essential to achieve optimal community mental health service development.