Global Leadership Exchange

Working to enhance mental health in the general population is increasingly necessary, in order to be able to have enough resources for crisis care and crucial mental health care. In this match, policies, programs and examples that promote mental health for all were discussed and mental health initiatives for neighbourhoods, schools and workplaces in Utrecht, the Netherlands, were visited. Work will continue, to create a shared language for population mental health and its inititiatives.

In Heiloo, the Netherlands, participants worked on the integration of peer leadership into systems beyond hierarchical roles and on promoting community care. Leadership principles and resources needed for effective implementation of peer leadership were explored, emphasizing "servant leadership," "convening," and "network weaving". The "Heiloo Declaration" was created as a living document to guide future work. A thought piece summarizing insights will be released in October 2024 to support global peer leadership practices.

Over 100 global leaders in acute psychiatry discussed their roles as first responders and established global crisis care principles together. These principles can help public health leaders shape and improve global behavioral health systems and outcomes. This is something that will be developed further. Also, the concept of “Peer first, Peer last” - working together with people with lived experience in acute care was explored.