The European Union is celebrating Mental Health Week this week, with the theme of ‘co-creation’ highlighting the importance of a collaborative approach in promoting positive mental health. This year, the focus is on addressing various challenges that can impact mental well-being, including excessive screen time among teenagers, feelings of loneliness among the elderly, and burnout among workers. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic, Russian war in Ukraine, climate change, rising energy costs and the cost of living have all had long-term effects on mental health.
In June 2023, the Commission launched a comprehensive approach to mental health aimed at combating stigma and promoting good mental health. This strategy includes fostering early interventions and timely support, collaborating with national authorities to develop EU guidance on stigma and discrimination, allocating funds for identifying gaps and building capacity, training healthcare professionals in providing mental health care, supporting vulnerable groups and developing guidelines for school leaders and policymakers.
The annual cost of mental health problems in children and young people in the EU is estimated at €50 billion. By fostering collaboration and breaking down silos, the goal is to achieve improved mental health for all individuals. For more information on Mental Health Week, the EU’s approach to mental health, new guidelines for policymakers and educators and statements from Commissioner Kyriakides.
