Research is an essential element in our advocacy work as research provides us with evidence to convince governments to transform mental health and other societal systems effectively, efficiently, and set within a human rights framework. Therefore, it is important that we help guide research through active involvement and collaboration with research and are involved in training of health and mental health professionals in academic institutions.


The Lancet Commission on Ending Stigma and Discrimination in Mental Health

The new Lancet Commission on Ending Stigma and Discrimination in Mental Health is the result of work by over 50 contributors from across the world, notably including people with lived experience of a mental health condition. Containing testimonies and poems from people with lived experience, the Commission reviews the evidence on effective interventions to reduce stigma and calls for immediate action from governments, international organisations, employers, healthcare provider and media organisations, along with active contributions from people with lived experience, to work together to eliminate mental health stigma and discrimination.

Lancet Commission on Psychosis

​The Lancet Psychiatry Commission on the Psychoses in a Global Context consists of a group of researchers, policy makers, clinicians , family members and service users convened to produce a comprehensive knowledge synthesis and vision for future research and development focused on psychosis. The GMHPN is represented on the Commission, providing lived experience perspectives.

Involvement in Research Projects

  • ​UPSIDES International Advisory Group
  • ASSET International Advisory Group
  • SIRS Research Harmonizing Group
  • SCOPE Project Advisory Group
We participated in several other research projects, including: Mental health research evidence and policy interrelationships in South Africa: Case study and validation of the EVITA1.1 framework; GLAM Research Study; NEON Study; Within and Against Global Mental Health: The Activism of Psychosocial Disability Advocates; International evidence on how to strengthen primary health care for the mentally ill; Decision-making for psychiatric inpatient admission without consent in South Africa; EURIKHA - Explorations of User-led Research: Impact, Knowledge and Historical Approaches; amongst others.