Brussels, 13/10/2014 (Agence Europe) - A report on the social integration of people suffering from mental illnesses in Europe was published on World Mental Health Day, on Friday 10 October. The study, by consultancy Economist Intelligence Unit, examined the challenges to integration in society and the world of work facing people suffering from mental illness in the 28 member countries of the European Union, and Norway and Switzerland. Countries were ranked according to their commitment to providing mental health support. The conclusions demonstrate that, despite numerous examples of good practice in Europe, there is still a long way to go before people suffering from mental illnesses are properly supported and really integrated within their communities. The ranking of countries was based on a list of indicators comprising the environment for those suffering from mental illnesses, access to help and medical services, opportunities - particularly in employment - and governance of the system, including on issues relating to human rights and efforts to tackle discrimination. With its solid health system and generous social measures, Germany tops the ranking, closely followed by the United Kingdom and the Scandinavian countries. (IL)