Mental Health: European Commission to support initiatives with €1.23bn

On Jun 9, 2023

The European Commission says it will support various mental health initiatives with 1.23 billion euros, which is about 1.32bn U.S. dollars. According to the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, mental health is as important to our well-being as physical health.

The commission however revealed that it aims to put mental health as priority, with physical health and also focusing on prevention, access to mental healthcare, treatment and reintegration after recovery. The move came after the COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected the psychological well-being of many Europeans, the commission noted.

EU Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides said: “We need to break down stigma and discrimination so that those in need can reach out and receive the support they need. It is ok not to be ok, and it is our duty to ensure that everyone asking for help has access to it,” she added.

Also, vulnerable persons, including children and people fleeing the war in Ukraine, are to benefit in particular, from the extra funding. The commission also aimed at promoting mental well-being at work.

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