Mental health services in Parma see rising demand and youth cases

Mental health and addiction services in Parma and its province have seen a significant increase in demand. In 2025, the integrated Department of Mental Health and Addictions recorded over 19,334 accesses, an increase of approximately 1,000 compared to the previous year. The number of patients currently under care rose to 13,000, up from 11,000 in 2024.

Specific trends include a 12.3% increase in pathological alcohol consumption and a rise in residential hospitalizations for intensive treatments to 242 units. There has also been a notable increase in the care of minors, with hospitalizations at San Polo di Torrile reaching 70 units in 2025.

In response to rising youth distress and substance abuse, INDIRE, commissioned by the Ministry of Education and Merit, has launched a free 50-hour training program for secondary school teachers. The multidisciplinary course aims to equip educators with tools to identify early signs of psychological distress, behavioral addictions, and problematic internet or gaming use among students.