SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 9th October (EUROPA PRESS) –
The Ministry of Health of the Canary Islands Government is participating in the observance of World Mental Health Day, celebrated annually on 10th October, aiming to enhance public awareness regarding the significance of mental health, associated disorders, and their implications.
This year, in alignment with the General Directorate of Mental Health and Addictions, a campaign has been initiated that embraces this year’s theme established by the Mental Health Confederation of Spain: “Work and mental health, a vital connection.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) characterises health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” In light of this definition, it is clear that the absence of mental health precludes overall health.
Epidemiological research indicates that one in four individuals in Spain will experience a mental health issue at some point in their life. Furthermore, between 2.5 and 3% of the population suffers from a severe mental disorder, amounting to over a million individuals.
The General Directorate of Mental Health and Addictions believes that preventive measures need to be implemented across various levels, particularly in the workplace. They highlight that comprehensive mental health care is shaped by numerous factors, encompassing social, occupational, cultural, environmental, and economic influences, as well as interpersonal relationships, social interaction, and the intrinsic characteristics of each individual.
In line with this perspective, the Ministry of Health is re-engaging with World Mental Health Day by launching an informative campaign centred on the impact of professional activity on mental well-being. This initiative aims to emphasise the significance of individuals experiencing life with equality and dignity, incorporating development across all dimensions: professional, educational, emotional, sexual, and social.
IMPACT OF THE WORK ENVIRONMENT
Under the theme ‘Work and mental health, a vital connection’, the campaign aims to underscore the substantial effect the work environment has on mental health, advocating for workplaces and conditions that promote the well-being of employees.
The slogan also draws attention to the concerning statistic of the low employment rate among individuals with mental health issues, which serves as an obstacle to their social integration. Continued efforts are required to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health conditions, as prevalent biases hinder these individuals from normalising their employment situations. This situation obstructs their full reintegration into society, inhibiting their ability to contribute their capabilities.
In the past year, the Ministry of Health has introduced various assistance programmes aimed at supporting individuals facing mental health challenges. Noteworthy initiatives include the establishment of a new unit for treating eating disorders in Gran Canaria, a recently launched Mental Health centre for children and adolescents in Telde, a psychosocial rehabilitation day facility in La Palma, a new Psychiatric Emergency unit at the Canary Islands University Hospital, and an additional community mental health unit in La Laguna, among other services.
Moreover, the Mental Health Plan is presently under review to tailor it to the current realities and needs of the community. Additionally, a Suicide Risk Intervention Protocol in educational establishments across the Canary Islands has been formulated, which has been implemented in local schools since this year.
Approximately 700 SCS professionals who form the mental health network are involved in these initiatives, who throughout 2023 have provided care for about 70,000 patients and conducted roughly 318,000 consultations.
