EP “World Mental Health Day – Addressing the Socio-Economic Factors” Debate – MHE Reacts
What is the psychosocial approach, and how is mental health impacted by socio-economic factors?
On Thursday, the 9th of October, the European Parliament held a debate titled “World Mental Health Day – addressing the socio-economic factors,” focusing on the escalating mental health challenges among Europeans and how to tackle them.
Mental Health Europe welcomes the Parliament’s attention to mental health and appreciates the framing of the discussion, which recognises the broader socio-economic factors shaping mental health — rather than placing responsibility solely on individuals or focusing narrowly on biomedical approaches.
However, we regret that neither the European Commission nor the European Parliament announced new commitments during the debate, and that the discussion remained largely centred on digitalisation and children’s mental health. While these are vital areas, a truly comprehensive European approach must also tackle the wider social and economic determinants that influence everyone’s mental health throughout the life course.
Psychosocial approach and shifting the narrative from the responsibility of the individual
Long-term prevention depends on improving living and working conditions and strengthening social inclusion. To truly promote mental well-being for all, the psychosocial model must be embedded across all areas of policy and regulation. Ensuring better living conditions is not only a question of fairness — it is the foundation of a healthier, more resilient society.
While a few Members of the European Parliament approached the issue from different perspectives, the vast majority recognised the need to move beyond narratives of individual responsibility and to address the structural and social factors that shape mental health. This shared understanding represents an important step towards a more comprehensive, systemic approach to well-being in Europe.
“ Our youth deserves more than resilience. They deserve justice, they deserve protection, they deserve care and they will get it if we act together. So, let’s stop asking them to adopt a broken world. Let’s fix the world instead.” – Tilly Metz, MEP (Greens/EFA) and Co-Chair of EP Intergroup on Mental Health
Mental Health Care Services
Mental Health Europe has long advocated for a psychosocial model of mental health and continues to urge EU institutions and national governments to adopt a comprehensive approach that spans the full spectrum — from prevention and the promotion of well-being to recovery and inclusion.
We call for greater investment in social inclusion and the development of high-quality, affordable, and accessible community-based services that are person-centred and grounded in human rights.
We were encouraged to see these priorities reflected in the debate.
“Mental health is not a luxury, it is a human rights . Mental health should not begin in a hospital, it needs to be part of society where people have stability and well-being, so we need tangible measures, stronger social security net, reduction of poverty inequalities, tackling burn out, focusing on social rights more than ever…” – Irene Joveva, MEP (Renew)
Call for a EU Mental Health Strategy and EU Mental Health Year
Mental Health Europe welcomes the growing attention to the socioeconomic determinants of mental health and encourages the European Parliament and the European Commission to continue advancing this approach.
We stand ready to share our expertise and engage in open dialogue with policymakers to help shape policies that place people’s well-being at the centre of Europe’s social and human rights agenda.
“The EU lacks a coherent and unified mental health strategy that we will implement on a sectoral basis. There should be better coordination, regulations of harmful practices and better monitoring across member states. Mental health should not be siloed as a health sector issue only, but integrated into jobs, education, digital policy, social inclusion, and addiction strategies, and must pay special attention on gender issues, women, men, and gender diverse people’s mental health…” – Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis, MEP (S&D)
We also support the proposal for an EU Mental Health Year, which could serve as a crucial milestone in raising awareness, coordinating actions, and developing a comprehensive EU mental health strategy.
“ I consider it very important to declare the European Year of Mental Health, within the framework of which we will develop an EU mental health strategy that will help our citizens and the most vulnerable members of our society.” – András Tivadar Kulja, MEP (EPP)
These two initiatives for a EU Mental Health Strategy and a Mental Health Year need to be encouraged and put into action. Kadri Soova, Director of Mental Health Europe, added to this call to action:
“Behind every number in a report is a person with hopes, challenges, and the potential to thrive. If we want a Europe that truly cares, we must build societies where equity, inclusion, and mental well-being are prioritised and shared by all. This is why we call for the development and implementation of a comprehensive EU Mental Health Strategy.”
Conclusion
The debate held on 9 October marks an important step towards recognising that mental health is deeply connected to the social and economic conditions in which people live, learn, and work. Mental Health Europe welcomes this growing awareness and urges the European Parliament and the European Commission to turn it into action.
The psychosocial approach must be embedded across all policies — addressing inequalities and improving living and working conditions for everyone. This is not only a matter of health policy, but a question of social justice and human rights.
Investing in mental health means investing in people, communities, and Europe’s shared future. We call on policymakers, civil society organisations, and communities to unite behind this vision and to support the initiative for a European Mental Health Year — a potential turning point for coordinated and ambitious action.
Together, we can design and build a Europe that truly cares — a Europe that promotes, protects, and is accountable for inclusion, equity, and mental well-being for all.
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About Mental Health Europe: Mental Health Europe is the main independent European non-governmental network organisation committed to the protection of the rights of persons with psychosocial disabilities, the promotion of positive mental health, the prevention of mental distress, and the improvement of mental health care and social inclusion.
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