Integrating Mental Health Services: Saudi Nursing's Contribution to Vision 2030's Holistic Healthcare

Abstract

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 outlines ambitious goals for transforming the healthcare system, with a focus on improving access, quality, and efficiency of care, including mental health services. Nurses, as the largest healthcare workforce in the country, have a critical role to play in achieving these goals and promoting a holistic approach to healthcare. This systematic review aims to synthesize the current evidence on the contributions of Saudi nursing in integrating mental health services into primary and community care, in alignment with Vision 2030's priorities. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using relevant databases, and 40 studies were included in the review. The findings highlight the potential of nurse-led mental health interventions in improving access, acceptability, and outcomes of care for patients with mental health conditions, particularly in underserved and rural areas. The review also identifies the enablers and barriers to the integration of mental health services into nursing practice, such as education and training, interprofessional collaboration, and cultural and organizational factors. Strategies for optimizing the role of nurses in mental health care are discussed, including workforce planning, task-sharing, and technology-enabled care. The review concludes with recommendations for future research, policy, and practice to support the development and empowerment of nurses as key providers of mental health services in Saudi Arabia.