Too often, people living with mental health challenges are met with misunderstanding, rejection and isolation. Tackling this is the key to building healthier, more inclusive societies. That is why every year on 10 October we celebrate World Mental Health Day, with this year’s theme being prioritising mental health at work.
To mark this important occasion, the Commission has presented an EU Support Package on stigma. The Commission will work with national authorities to implement it, and connect them with mental health advocacy groups, for inclusive and informed policy-making.
Tackling stigma is about more than just policy-making, which is why the Commission also launched the new ‘In this together’ campaign. This will see it reach out to people across the EU, to challenge misconceptions and promote greater understanding and acceptance on mental health. It will also support national action in education by distributing teaching materials to schools around Europe as a way of increasing awareness and normalising mental health.
In addition, an updated tracker was published today to monitor progress on the 20 flagship initiatives that are part of the EU’s comprehensive approach to mental health. This approach, which was rolled out in 2023, has financing opportunities worth EUR 1.23 billion that will directly and indirectly support Member States. Its aim is to ensure (i) adequate and effective prevention, (ii) access to high quality and affordable mental healthcare and treatment and (iii) reintegration into society after recovery.
According to a 2023 EU survey, almost 1 in 2 people (46% of the EU population) had experienced emotional or psychosocial problems, such as feeling depressed or anxious, in the previous 12 months. The stakes are high and that is why the EU is committed to creating a future where everyone’s mental health is nurtured, valued and protected.
For more information
Statement by Commissioner Kyriakides ahead of World Mental Health Day
The EU’s comprehensive approach to mental health
Video: Mental Health Stigma and Discrimination Campaign – Main Film
