The European Commission’s focus on mental health within the “Healthier Together” initiative and other related actions addresses a critical aspect of public health. The Commission has long prioritized mental health, and in 2023, it adopted a new comprehensive approach to this field. This approach extends beyond health, encompassing education, digitalisation, employment, research, urban development, environment, and climate. The Commission’s Communication on mental health identifies financing opportunities worth EUR 1.23 billion to support Member States in achieving a comprehensive approach to mental health.
The recent challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ukraine conflict, and economic stresses, have exacerbated mental health issues, particularly among young people. Reports indicate that nearly half of young Europeans report unmet needs for mental health care, and the number of young people experiencing depression symptoms has doubled in several EU countries during the pandemic. This situation underscores the need for more ambitious actions in mental health promotion and prevention.
The Commission supports the transfer of best practices in mental health, focusing on projects like mental health system reform in Belgium, a national suicide prevention programme in Austria, and a European collaborative programme to tackle depression. These initiatives involve significant financial contributions from the EU and are implemented in collaboration with various Member State.
Under the ‘Healthier Together’ initiative, mental health and neurological disorders are a key focus. The initiative promotes high-impact actions in areas such as enhancing resilience, promoting mental well-being, improving access to mental health services, and addressing the stigma associated with mental health problems.
Additionally, the Commission collaborates with the World Health Organization and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development to offer tailor-made support for each Member State in implementing best practices on mental health.
Over EUR 30 million has been allocated in the past three years for projects addressing mental health, with over EUR 18 million available under the 2023 EU4Health work programme. These funds are aimed at addressing mental health challenges, promoting mental health, and targeting vulnerable groups like migrants, refugees, and displaced persons from Ukraine.
The Commission has also been proactive in addressing the mental health needs of refugees and displaced persons, especially from Ukraine, by mobilizing over EUR 30 million for mental health and trauma support. This includes a significant contribution agreement with the International Federation of Red Cross and funding for proposals from NGOs to improve mental health in migrant and refugee populations.
Furthermore, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health services and the well-being of citizens has been profound. In response, the Commission established networks and funded projects to address mental health challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, including initiatives focusing on vulnerable groups and community-based efforts to alleviate mental health impacts.
These concerted efforts by the European Commission reflect a deep understanding of the multifaceted nature of mental health challenges and a strong commitment to improving mental health care and outcomes across the European Union.