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31/10/2005.
European Commission has presented a Green paper on Mental Health, responding to both an increasing interest in the mental health of the EU-population and a strong political commitment for action in this field. The document outlines the relevance of mental health for EU’s strategic policy objectives, proposes the development of a strategy on mental health at Community-level and identifies its possible priorities. The workplace is listed as a “crucial setting for action“.
The Green Paper, entitled "Promoting the Mental Health of the Population. Towards a Strategy on Mental health for the European Union”, points out that good mental health increases work capacity and productivity, while poor working conditions including the intimidation by colleagues lead to poor mental health, sick leave and increased costs. Up to 28% of employees in Europe report stress at work. Interventions to improve individual capacity and to reduce stressors in the work environment increase health and economic development.
The European Commission had invited European institutions, Governments, health professionals, stakeholders in other sectors, civil society including patient organisations, and the research community to communicate their views on this document. Contributions in the context of this consultation process can be sent to the Commission by 31 May 2006,.i.e. by email to .
In late 2006, the Commission intends to present its analysis of the responses received together with, if appropriate, its proposal and/or initiatives for a strategy on mental health for the EU. Contributions to the consultation process should be communicated to the Commission.
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