ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the relationship of sustainable development goals 3 (SDG3) to mental health and wellbeing in the context of natural and humanitarian disasters. It offers some strategies for reduction of stress-related conditions and improvement of mental health systems based on a case study of Haiti following its 2010 earthquake, the subsequent ongoing cholera outbreak, and the 2016 hurricane. Disasters and emergencies offer critical opportunities for systems and policy leaders to reflect upon gaps in health care and to strengthen national health systems consistent with SDG3. Significant evidence exists regarding the positive impacts of integrated delivery of mental health and psychosocial support with major global health priorities, all of which can be exacerbated in disasters in the context of compromised health systems. The development of primary care systems through delivery of services for HIV/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome has led to a fundamental shift in global health toward the strengthening of health systems.
