The aim of this analysis was to analyze and describe the steps that have been taken in the
development of the mental health policy in Suriname after the WHO AIMS. The objectives are:
1.To review the steps to be taken in developing a mental health policy and plan for a country
2.To gather information and data concerning mental health policy and plan development in
Suriname
3.To draw conclusion from the experience gained that can be applied to other countries
In general, the information that was gathered from the four countries Guyana, Barbados,
Trinidad & Tobago and Suriname, was compared with the WHO steps for developing a mental
health policy and plan. Were these steps taken into consideration, when developing their mental
health policy and plan? If not, what were the reasons why it did not happen? The checklist for
evaluating a mental health plan was used in Suriname. This checklist assisted to see if the results
of the recommendations given by the WHO AIMS to develop a effective and balanced mental
health plan were taken into consideration.