The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating effect on mental health and highlighted the necessity to adapt quickly to new and unexpected needs. Especially young people, minorities and marginalized populations were at risk. Conflicts, traumatic events related to war and disasters caused by climate change have further increased the pressure on the mental health care system worldwide. Currently, more than three years since the beginning of the pandemic, mental health services need to rediscover their roots and find a new path to move forward. This article is the fruit of a conversation between an expert advocate for global mental health and a psychiatrist with a clinical background working in Switzerland. In this interview, the authors identify this global crisis as an opportunity to rethink and reshape the framework of mental health care. Reflections about psychiatry as a discipline, progresses achieved and challenges to come are presented. Obstacles due to the limited resources allocated to mental health, such as inadequate investment and lack of professionals, are a reality. It is highlighted that the mental health crisis is developing in every country, regardless of economic or human investment. Therefore, a rights-based approach, aiming to reduce coercion and dis- crimination is increasingly recognized as an essential route to achieve a transformation in the health care system. Ways to increase awareness about human rights violations, options for practical implementation and international guidelines are also discussed. Finally, four recommendations to implement these principles in the Swiss context are given.