There has been limited use of sociological and anthropological methods for understanding public health issues in Nepal [1-3]. In the area of mental health, specifically, these methods may provide unique insights into the experiences, expressions and healing of mental illness in Nepal [1, 3]. With increasing biomedical psychosocial interventions in Nepal, it is crucial to employ social science approaches that inform the development of mental health services.
In this panel, we emphasize the importance of social science methods in the field of mental health research and intervention. First, Angdembe discusses on the use of traditional qualitative social sciences method of focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews (KIIs) to design a culturally adapted, community-based mental health intervention in Pyuthan. Second, Rai talks about the use of anthropological techniques of Life Trajectory Interviews (LTI) and Card Sorting techniques to identify potential areas of mental health intervention aimed at improving well-being across the lifespan in Jumla. Finally, Subba explains on moving away from the traditional biomedical model of top-down symptom checklists towards the use of innovative, narrative-based mental illness detection strategies in Chitwan.