Problem Management Plus

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Problem Management Plus

Evidence Status: Evidence-supported

Medically reviewed · Dr. Sarah Whitfield, PsyD · Sunday, 16 August 2026

A brief, low-intensity psychological intervention developed by the World Health Organization to help people experiencing distress in humanitarian and low-resource settings.

What Is Problem Management Plus?

Problem Management Plus is a brief, structured, low-intensity psychological intervention developed by the World Health Organization to address common mental health difficulties, such as depression and anxiety symptoms, among people facing adversity, originally designed for humanitarian and low-resource settings where specialized mental health services are limited.

How It Works

This intervention combines simple, teachable strategies, including stress management, problem-solving, behavioral activation, and social support strengthening, delivered by trained non-specialist providers under supervision, extending the reach of basic psychological support. This description uses original explanatory language.

What Happens During Therapy?

Sessions, often delivered by trained community health workers rather than specialist clinicians, cover a structured set of core skills across a small number of sessions, focused on practical coping and problem-solving strategies.

Evidence and Effectiveness

Research supports Problem Management Plus for reducing psychological distress in humanitarian and adversity-affected populations, with evidence from randomized controlled trials conducted in several countries, including through the World Health Organization’s own research programs.

Who May Benefit?

Problem Management Plus may be considered for people experiencing distress related to significant adversity, particularly in settings with limited access to specialist mental health care.

Limitations and Considerations

As a brief, low-intensity intervention, Problem Management Plus is generally not intended for severe mental illness or crisis situations requiring specialist care.

Finding a Qualified Therapist

Problem Management Plus is delivered by trained lay providers or community health workers under professional supervision, as well as mental health professionals in some settings.

How Long Does Therapy Take?

Problem Management Plus is typically delivered over approximately 5 sessions, reflecting its brief, accessible design.

Therapy vs. Medication

Problem Management Plus is a brief psychological intervention and does not replace medication for diagnosed conditions; referral to further care is part of the model when needed, in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.

What Conditions Is It Used For?

Major Depressive Disorder

A mood disorder involving persistent sadness or loss of interest that interferes with daily life for at least two weeks.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

A persistent pattern of excessive, difficult-to-control worry about everyday events and activities.

Adjustment Disorder

An emotional or behavioral response to an identifiable stressor that is out of proportion to the stressor or causes significant impairment.

Related Therapy Types

Problem-Solving Therapy

A structured, skills-based therapy that teaches systematic problem-solving strategies to help manage stress and reduce depressive symptoms.

Supportive Psychotherapy

A therapy approach focused on providing empathic support, encouragement, and practical coping assistance rather than deep exploration or structured skill-building.

Medical Information Disclaimer

Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

References

  • World Health Organization. Mental Health Guidelines.
  • American Psychological Association. Clinical Practice Guidelines.
  • National Institute of Mental Health. Psychotherapies.