Brussels, 11/10/2013 (Agence Europe) - On 10 October, the Lithuanian Presidency of the Council of Ministers opened a two-day conference on mental health, marking World Mental Health Day. The goal of the conference is to promote implementation of the European Pact for Mental Health and Well-Being and to encourage representatives in the various fields (health, social affairs and education) to share their experience and enhance cooperation on and prevention of mental health disorders. The event will also cover the mental health of children, young people and elderly people, the impact of alcohol consumption, suicide risk and depression management, and the stigmatisation of mental health.
In the European Union, where about 50 million people suffer from mental health disorders, and where more and more young people are suffering from mental health problems, the issue is being discussed with increasing attention and is seen as having greater significance. A number of specialists will address the conference, which will also be attended by Health Commissioner Tonio Borg. (IL/transl.fl)