MEP Alex Agius Saliba demands EC action on mental health strategy

MEP Alex Agius Saliba called upon the European Commission to develop a European Union (EU) Mental Health Strategy. As the Vice-Chair of Mental Health Intergroup at the European Parliament, MEP Agius Saliba hosted an event to promote a Mental Health Strategy for the Union.

“The support and interest shown by the stakeholders present at the meeting confirmed the importance of progress on this important issue. Europe needs a clear direction and strategy for mental health, which will play an instrumental role in shaping the positive mental health of our society,” said the MEP after the event.

The event, organised together with the Coalition for Mental Health and Wellbeing and the MEP Alliance for Mental Health, gathered EU-level and national stakeholders to discuss how to integrate a range of social determinants of mental health - such as employment, education, and housing – and how to progress with the EU-level action.

“Around the world, mental health disorders affect one in ten people. Mental health-friendly policies across all sectors will play a key role in the wellbeing of Europeans. A comprehensive European Mental Health Strategy will improve the lives of millions of Europeans – both those affected by mental ill-health and their families – and contribute to a stronger economy, social cohesion, and sustainable development,” MEP Agius Saliba said.

“Currently, the Commission addresses mental health as part of its chronic disease activities. This lack of specific attention is not acceptable. The increasing prevalence, burden and impact of mental ill-health needs to be addressed in all its aspects. Fortunately, the Finnish Presidency Council Conclusions and EPSCO Council Conclusions now provide a genuine opportunity to develop a comprehensive EU Mental Health Strategy,” said event’s host MEP Alex Agius Saliba.

“As the co-chair of the MEP Alliance for Mental Health, as well as an active member of the EP Coalition for Mental Health and Wellbeing, I demanded on the Commission to develop a comprehensive and proactive EU Mental Health Strategy,” Agius Saliba said.