The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced a new international framework to promote certified mental health retreats across member countries.


In a landmark policy shift, the WHO has launched the Global Mental Health Retreat Framework (GMHRF) aimed at integrating certified wellness retreats into national health systems.

This program will:

• Provide funding for low-cost, evidence-based mental health retreat programs
• Certify retreat centers based on safety, qualifications, and impact
• Promote trauma-informed, non-pharmaceutical approaches in post-pandemic recovery Pilots will begin in Finland, Thailand, and Costa Rica—chosen for their existing wellness infrastructure. The move reflects growing research that shows retreat-style interventions can significantly reduce anxiety, PTSD, and burnout. WHO's executive director stated, “Retreats may become as essential as hospitals in future health landscapes.”