1.P. Workshop: European Public Mental Health Responses to COVID-19

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in an increase in multiple known risk factors for mental health problems globally. As such, evidence-based, intersectoral public mental health responses to reduce and mitigate the pandemic-related consequences are critical. However, studies exploring variations in public mental health responses to the pandemic from across Europe are limited. In order to shape and inform future public mental health responses to the crisis, there would be great value in knowing how mental health support systems have adapted to date. To fill the gap in knowledge of Public Mental Health responses, we organized this workshop in three parts: First, Naomi Wilson will give an overview on Public Mental Health service responses in the European region, second Shari McDaid will provide insights on the structure of Public Mental Health in Scotland and third Frank Wieber will give an overview on structures of Public Mental Health responses in Switzerland.Key messages Evidence-based, intersectoral public mental health responses to reduce and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic-related consequences are critical given the increased risk factors for mental health problems.The workshop will provide an overview how mental health support systems in Europe have adapted to date.