The relationship between life expectancy and mental health systems in European countries

INTRODUCTION: This study was designed to evaluate the relationship between life expectancy at birth (LEAB) and national mental health systems.
METHODS: Retrospective research was conducted using secondary data obtained from the World Health Organization Global Health Observatory database. The study sample consisted of annual data reported by numerous European countries. The secondary data of the independent variables used in the study represented the period of 2013 to 2017, while the secondary data of the dependent variable pertained to 2019.
RESULTS: A greater number of psychiatric hospitals, mental health units, outpatient facilities for mental health, beds for mental health patients (in general hospitals), and mental health physicians and nurses was associated with a greater LEAP (p<0.05). The data varied greatly between countries.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: These findings reinforce the necessity of conducting reform of mental health policies as needed to ensure that there is adequate provision of care.