Portugal launches new mental health and depression initiatives

New mental health initiatives are being launched in Portugal to combat stigma and provide alternative treatments for depression.

In Vila Pouca de Aguiar, the ‘Festival Mental Itinerante’ project is traveling through various parishes to bring discussions about mental health directly to local populations. The initiative aims to reduce social isolation and demystify mental illness, particularly among the elderly, to prevent the stigma associated with being labeled as ‘mad’.

In Barcelos, the Local Health Unit (ULS) has introduced the ‘AtivaMente’ project. This program involves doctors ‘prescribing’ lifestyle interventions such as walking, pilates, swimming, and mindfulness to treat depression. The 12-week pilot program will follow 25 to 30 adults and includes animal-assisted therapy using trained dogs to help improve communication, self-esteem, and autonomy.