A mental health information system is a system for collecting and applying information about a mental health service and the mental health needs of the population it serves. The module begins with a discussion of what information should be collected and how this information can be used. Based on the experiences of several countries in developing health information systems, the module articulates a number of broad principles that a country should adhere to in the development of a mental health information system. It then lays out a step-by-step approach to designing, establishing and evaluating such a system. Information systems are essential for both long-term national mental health planning and service delivery at community and individual levels.
