Inside PM+: The mental health innovation transforming lives around the world

One out of every two people in the world will develop a mental health disorder in their lifetime, according to a large-scale study co-led by researchers from Harvard Medical School and the University of Queensland. From rising stress and anxiety to the long-term impacts of trauma, the need for accessible and effective mental health support has never been greater. Yet, for millions, traditional mental health services remain out of reach due to barriers like cost, stigma, or limited availability. Enter PM+, a groundbreaking mental health support program that’s driving a global shift in how mental health support is delivered and received.

What exactly is PM+?
PM+ (Problem Management Plus) is a low-intensity psychological intervention developed by the World Health Organization to provide effective mental health support in low-resource settings. Designed to help individuals cope with stress, anxiety,
depression, and other common mental health issues, PM+ uses evidence-based techniques that have been shown to improve mental health outcomes without requiring formal therapy or advanced training.

Unlike traditional mental health interventions, which rely heavily on mental health professionals, PM+ empowers non-specialist “Helpers”—ordinary community members trained to deliver the program. This model makes PM+ both scalable and sustainable, ensuring that even the most underserved communities can access support.

How PM+ works
At its core, PM+ is built on practical, easy-to-understand strategies that focus on problem-solving, emotional regulation, and cognitive behavioral techniques (CBT). Over the course of five sessions, a trained Helper guides participants to identify and manage their most pressing concerns, build resilience, and improve their overall mental well-being.

Participants learn:

• Problem solving—identifying and addressing stress-causing issues with practical solutions.
• Stress reduction—using techniques like deep breathing and mindfulness.
• Behavioral activation—engaging in positive activities to boost mood and well-being.
• Cognitive skills—challenging negative thoughts with balanced thinking.
• Social support—sharing experiences and building a supportive community.
• Goal setting—setting achievable goals to increase motivation and confidence.

Why PM+ is changing everything
PM+ is more than just a mental health intervention—it’s a movement that’s changing the way we think about mental health support. Here’s why it’s gaining so much attention:

• • Accessibility at scale
    PM+ is designed to be delivered by non-specialists, which breaks down significant barriers to mental health care. This is crucial in countries and communities where access to trained mental health professionals is often limited.
  • Culturally sensitive and flexible
    The flexibility of PM+ is one of its standout features. The program can be adapted to suit different cultures, languages, and contexts, which means it can be deployed in diverse communities across the world. Its non-clinical approach also reduces stigma, making people more likely to seek help.
  • Evidence-based impact
    Studies across multiple settings have shown that PM+ reduces symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress, while also improving quality of life and daily functioning. The program doesn’t just manage symptoms; it helps individuals make lasting changes that promote better mental health in the long run.
  • Empowerment and community-led support
    PM+ is community-centered. By training local, trusted members of the community to deliver the program, PM+ creates a sustainable, peer-led support network. This builds trust, fosters local leadership, and ensures the program can continue to grow and thrive.
  • Cost-effective and sustainable
    Traditional mental health services can be expensive and resource-intensive. In contrast, PM+ is a cost-effective model that doesn’t rely on high-cost infrastructure or highly specialized care. This makes it a sustainable solution that can be integrated into community-based programs around the world.

The global impact
PM+ is already making a measurable impact. In Africa, Asia, and Latin America, PM+ is helping communities heal from the psychological toll of war, displacement and poverty. In urban centers, it’s being used to support individuals facing the challenges of daily life, such as work-related stress, financial anxiety, or grief.

Why you should care
Mental health has become one of the greatest challenges of our time, and PM+ is one of the most innovative solutions available. Whether you’re a community leader, a healthcare worker, or just someone who cares about mental health, PM+ is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others.

Its combination of accessibility, empowerment, and sustainability is reshaping the way mental health support is delivered around the world. The future of mental health care is not just about having the right resources—it’s about creating community-based solutions that work for everyone.

PM+ is proving that mental health support doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive to be effective. It just has to be accessible, compassionate, and tailored to the needs of the people it serves.

Want to bring PM+ to your community?
Learn more about how this innovative program is transforming lives and changing the mental health landscape. Together, we can create stronger, more resilient communities—one powerful step at a time.