Q: What advice do you have for a psychiatry resident who wants to develop a career in global mental health?
A: Two suggestions: First, do an 'internship' with a mental health program in a region of the world which interests you; Second, complete a year of structured study in global/public health. Shorter courses, such as the Leadership in Mental Health course are also recommended for those who are specifically interested in scaling up services for mental disorders in low resource-settings.

Q: Some psychiatry residents envision a career that allows them to do clinical work in low-income countries that are not their countries of origin. How feasible a choice is this?
A: Many low-resource settings rely on such expatriate psychiatrists; indeed, many rich countries do too!! Of course, there is a need to be fully knowledgeable about the local context/culture/social situation. Ideally, choose a country where you speak the same language (even if only the colonial language) and make a concerted effort to learn the local language when you are working in that country. The one major barrier may be licencing of medical practitioners. Check out your eligibility with the local  medical licencing bodies.

Q: What is the role of mentorship in developing the global mental health work force?
A: Enormous! Once you have worked in such a role, be sure to become a mentor for the next cohort!

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