For this year’s European Public Health Week, WHO/Europe is planning a 1.5-hour online event, in collaboration with Mental Health Europe, to highlight the powerful and unique forms of support that communities to promote the mental health and well-being of people of all ages.
Mental health needs in the WHO European Region are high, with around 1 in 7 people suffering from a mental health problem. There remains underinvestment in mental health interventions, particularly those primarily aimed at preventing mental health problems and promoting well-being. Stigma and discrimination are pervasive and hinder many people in their efforts to seek help.
The event will feature a panel of experts from across the region, speaking on the diversity of ways people can get mental health support in their communities: informal social support provided by peers and family , advice from educators or school health staff, artistic activities. delivered in schools or community centers, community-wide anti-stigma campaigns and much more. The way we design and plan spaces in our communities can also support mental health and wellbeing, for example for older people, by enabling social interaction and full participation in society.
With the advent of digital technologies, the notion of “community” now encompasses much more than the immediate environment. Digital communities can provide equally powerful ways for people in need to reach out and get help.
Community mental health support can help those already struggling with mental health issues, as well as those most vulnerable, while helping to maintain and promote well-being.
The event is open to anyone interested. Please register using the following link in advance:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with information about participating in the webinar.
About European Public Health Week
European Public Health Week aims to raise awareness of different aspects of public health and to connect and promote collaboration between members of the public health community. The initiative began in 2019 and WHO/Europe has been a strong advocate since its inception.
The theme this year is “Public health: global issues, local actions”. Each day has its own sub-theme, as follows:
- Monday May 22: Mental health for all
- Tuesday May 23: Diversity in health
- Wednesday May 24: Access to care
- Thursday May 25: Prevention and control of chronic diseases
- Friday May 26: Global health emergencies and response
Join the conversation and promote your activities using the hashtag #EUPHW. You can find this week’s media toolkit here: https://eupha.org/general_page.php?p=279
