On June 7th, the European Commission introduced a new pillar to the European Health Union – a working group created by the Commission to better coordinate Member States responses to health crises – focusing on comprehensive mental health support. With €1.23 billion in EU funding and 20 flagship initiatives, the Commission aims to prioritise mental health and combat the increasing prevalence of mental health problems, worsened by recent crises. The cost of inaction is estimated to be €600 billion annually. The approach emphasises prevention, access to affordable and high-quality mental healthcare, and reintegration into society after recovery. Concrete actions include promoting good mental health through prevention and early detection, investing in training and capacity building, ensuring mental health at work, and protecting children and vulnerable groups.
Read more about the Commission initiative here.