The European Commission announced today, Wednesday, that it will allocate €1.23 billion ($1.3 billion) for mental health initiatives in the 27 EU member states, making mental health a cornerstone of health policy.
EU Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides, stated in a release that "today marks a new beginning for a comprehensive and preventive approach to mental health across the EU that serves many parties."
She emphasized the need to eliminate stigma and discrimination so that those in need can access the support they require. "It is possible that we may not be okay, and it is our duty to ensure that everyone who seeks help can access it," she added.
The Commission highlighted that mental health issues were already affecting approximately 84 million people before the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in an economic cost of around €600 billion annually, equivalent to four percent of the bloc's GDP.
The situation worsened following the outbreak of the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, concerns about climate change, and rising living costs amid soaring inflation.
In a press conference, the Vice President of the European Commission, Margaritis Schinas, described mental health issues as a "silent pandemic." The EU's efforts will focus on providing adequate and effective prevention, high-quality and affordable mental health care, and reintegration into society after recovery.
