On Wednesday 27 November, the Committee of Permanent Representatives (Coreper) approved EU Council conclusions on improving the mental health of women and girls by promoting gender equality.
These conclusions will be presented for approval at the meeting of the Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council (EPSCO) on 2 and 3 December.
According to the draft conclusions, the aim is to integrate a gender perspective into mental health policies. The text also calls for combating all forms of violence and gender stereotypes, as well as strengthening the application of recent European legislation on equal treatment.
The conclusions are based on data revealing that women are twice as likely as men to suffer from depression, largely due to structural inequalities, such as the unequal distribution of family tasks and care responsibilities.
They also highlight the impact of gender-based violence and economic pressures on women’s mental well-being.
The proposed measures include increased support for victims of gender-based violence, the development of inclusive and accessible mental health services and targeted action to reduce the mental and economic burden on women.
The status of women in precarious or marginalised situations is a particularly important issue. (Original version in French by Nithya Paquiry)