Mental Health in Spain

Mental health has historically been neglected and stigmatised in Spanish society, but the crisis generated by the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the urgent need to pay attention to this issue and update strategies at a global and national level, focusing on full wellbeing and social inclusion. As reflected in the study "Mental Health in Spain" which, commissioned by the General Council of Pharmaceutical Associations of Spain, has been developed by ISGlobal, a centre supported by "la Caixa" Foundation.

After addressing the current situation, the text tackles the capacities and limitations of the Spanish system in three areas:

• the prevention of mental illness,
• the early identification of the symptoms of mental illness, and
• the treatment of mental illness.

Mental health, a matter for everyone

The analysis document highlights the importance of engaging all political and social groups to address the new challenges posed by the new mental health horizon. At the same time, it is a call to action to raise awareness of the significance of mental health and to promote social inclusion, the fight against stigma and respect for citizens' rights.

In short, "Mental Health in Spain" underlines the need for comprehensive health care, where mental health plays a fundamental role in people's well-being.

This "Radiography of the State of Mental Health in Spain", as part of the Social Strategy of the Pharmaceutical Profession, offers a series of recommendations arising from the analysis and discussion within the Social Advisory Council, comprising the following thirteen entities: AFAMMER, Cáritas, CEAPA, CEOMA, CERMI, Red Cross, Farma Mundi, Pharmacists Without Borders, ONCE Foundation, IMSERSO, Platforms of Patients' Organisations, REDR and UNICEF.