Ukraine broadens international reference base for mental health guidelines

In late November, Ukraine’s Ministry of Health adopted an important update to its methodology for developing and implementing evidence-based medical standards. The revised framework expands the list of international “trusted sources” that can be used when drafting national clinical guidelines and standards of care.

For the first time, the methodology now includes a dedicated mental health and psychiatry section. The updated list recognises guidance from major international professional bodies, including the American Psychiatric Association, the US Department of Veterans Affairs, the European Psychiatric Association, the Royal College of Psychiatrists in the UK, the Canadian Psychiatric Association, and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, alongside a national association in neuropsychopharmacology and biological psychiatry.

This change matters for several reasons. Many of these organisations produce clinical guidelines, consensus statements, and evidence reviews that shape psychiatric practice globally. By formally recognising them, the Ukrainian health system creates clearer pathways for aligning national standards with up-to-date international evidence.

The update is particularly relevant for areas of mental health where practice is evolving rapidly and where national guidance may still be under development, such as with psychedelic therapies. It also strengthens the legitimacy of drawing on international psychiatric expertise in future guideline work, training, and service design.

Overall, the decision represents a technical but meaningful step towards greater integration of global best practice into Ukraine’s mental health system, reinforcing an evidence-based approach at a time when mental health needs remain acute.

The involvement of PAREA’s Community Supporter - the Ukrainian Psychedelic Research Association was crucial in making this happen.