A people-centred approach to mental health in Europe: five priorities for EU action

Mental health and psychosocial well-being are key foundations of resilient and thriving communities. Acting early when needs arise is essential to supporting quick recovery – especially for people affected by discrimination, exclusion, displacement or crisis. 

Drawing on the first-hand experience of National Red Cross Societies, this position paper offers recommendations to the EU and Member States to make mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) an integral part of public policies and everyday societal practices.

Our recommendations to the EU and Member States:

1. Put people first: prioritise a bottom-up approach to MHPSS
2. Make MHPSS everyone’s business: integrate MHPSS across sectors and services
3. Leave no one behind: guarantee universal access to MHPSS
4. Break the silence: tackle stigma and foster participation in MHPSS
5. Be ready for tomorrow: embed MHPSS in preparedness for emergencies