Yakutia's mental health crisis deepens as facilities overflow with patients

A recent parliamentary session in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia) has highlighted growing concerns over mental health care in the region. Lawmakers gathered to discuss a report by Human Rights Commissioner Sardana Guryeva, which revealed rising patient numbers and severe capacity shortages in specialised facilities. The session brought together three standing committees to address the challenges outlined in Guryeva’s report. One key issue was the overcrowding at the Yakutsk Republican Psychoneurological Dispensary. Originally designed for 250 beds, the facility now houses around 500 patients, double its intended capacity.

Patient numbers have surged in recent years. In 2024, 7,855 individuals with mental disorders were registered, marking an increase of 1,376 since 2020. Additionally, 10,800 people now require outpatient monitoring—786 more than four years ago. Guryeva proposed solutions, including the construction of a new dispensary building and expanding capacity in social institutions. She also called for a dedicated service to safeguard the rights of patients in psychoneurological departments and inpatient units. Funding gaps were another concern, with an extra 279.2 million rubles needed to support psychiatrists and narcologists not covered by the basic health insurance programme. In response, lawmakers directed the regional government to draft proposals for improving patient conditions and increasing capacity in specialised facilities.

The session underscored the urgent need for expanded mental health services in Yakutia. With patient numbers rising and facilities stretched beyond capacity, the government must now act on the proposed measures to address the shortfall in care and infrastructure.