By 2029, I envision a European Union where mental health care is inclusive, intersectional and accessible to everyone. This future will take into account the diverse and special needs of all citizens, taking into account the intersections of gender, age, disability, and more.
Mental health issues do not exist in isolation. They are heavily influenced by social factors such as gender norms, age-related prejudice, and disability prejudice. For example, men often face cultural barriers when seeking mental health support, and women are disproportionately affected by certain mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Often overlooked, older adults face unique mental health challenges, including isolation and dementia-related issues. Similarly, people with disabilities face the double burden of managing their disability and associated mental health challenges.
Our strategy for 2029 must therefore be based on awareness, accessibility and personalization.
First, we need to educate people to break down the stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental health. We need to implement EU-wide education programs and awareness campaigns that address the cross-cutting nature of mental health. The European Year of Mental Health will be a step in the right direction for this. These programs and campaigns should be designed to reach a variety of groups, including schools, workplaces and local communities, to ensure that everyone, from young students to older adults, receives the knowledge and support they need. .
Second, we must work towards a European Union where everyone has equal access to quality mental health care, regardless of gender, age or disability. This means investing in health infrastructure, including digital health solutions, to serve remote and underserved areas, as well as people with disabilities and people of all ages. Additionally, we need to advocate for policies that support mental health services in a variety of settings, including schools, workplaces, and nursing homes.
Finally, a one-size-fits-all approach is clearly ineffective in addressing the complex nature of mental health. By 2029, we should aim for individualized mental health care plans that take into account an individual's gender, age and disability. This personalized care must extend to preventive measures, treatment, and long-term support.
In conclusion, our vision for 2029 is not just about building a strong mental health system. It's about building systems that are fair, empathetic, and acknowledge the diverse needs of all individuals. By focusing on intersectionality, we can ensure that no one is left behind in the quest to improve mental health across the European Union. Let's work together to realize this vision for a healthier and more inclusive Europe.
