About
The Directorate for Social Change & Mental Health Services (DSCMHS) is the pivotal
government body responsible for steering mental health and social change initiatives in Papua New Guinea. Established under the
visionary Mental Health Act 2015, we are the cornerstone of the nation’s
commitment to the psychological and social well-being of its people.
Our Vision
A mentally healthy Papua New Guinea by 2050. We envision a nation where every individual
can achieve mental wellness, free from stigma and discrimination, and where mental health
is valued as an integral part of overall health.
Our History & Mandate
Formed to consolidate and advance mental health services, DSCMHS builds upon a legacy of care. We are responsible for overseeing psychiatric
services at key facilities like Laloki Hospital, and for translating national policies—including the Mental Health Policy, National Alcohol Policy, and Traditional Medicine Policy—into actionable programs that benefit every citizen.
Our Leadership & Partnerships
Under the leadership of Acting Director Dr. Nelson Mek, DSCMHS works in close partnership with the World Health Organisation (WHO), the National Department of Health (NDoH), provincial health authorities, and community based organizations to ensure a coordinated and effective approach to mental health across all 22 provinces.