Yakutia's Parliament Tackles Rising Mental Health Crisis with Urgent Reforms

A joint session of three standing committees in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia) parliament recently addressed urgent mental health care challenges. The discussions centred on a report by Human Rights Commissioner Sardana Guryeva, highlighting gaps in support for patients with mental disorders. The meeting revealed a sharp rise in demand for mental health services. In 2024, 7,855 patients were registered—1,376 more than in 2020. Another 10,800 individuals now require outpatient monitoring, an increase of 786 since 2020. Overcrowding at the Yakutsk Republican Psychoneurological Dispensary was also raised, with the facility currently housing around 500 people.

Guryeva proposed several solutions to ease the strain. These included building a new dispensary and expanding capacity in specialised social institutions. She also called for a dedicated service to protect the rights of mental health patients. Lawmakers responded by instructing the government to draft improvements. Key measures involve securing an additional 279.2 million rubles to fund psychiatrists and narcologists not covered by basic compulsory health insurance (CHI). The plans aim to strengthen support systems and ensure better conditions for those with mental disorders.

The session concluded with clear directives for the regional government. Funding and infrastructure upgrades are now priorities to address growing patient numbers. If implemented, the proposals would expand access to care and reduce overcrowding in existing facilities.