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Mental health initiatives in Portugal

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2026-10-02 07:44 UTC → 2026-10-12 18:59 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Portugal has introduced several new mental health initiatives targeting different demographics to combat stigma and improve well-being. Initial efforts focused on community-based and lifestyle interventions. In Vila Pouca de Aguiar, the ‘Festival Mental Itinerante’ project travels through parishes to discuss mental health and reduce social isolation, particularly among the elderly. In Barcelos, the ‘AtivaMente’ project utilizes lifestyle prescriptions—such as walking, pilates, and mindfulness—alongside animal-assisted therapy to treat depression in adults. Subsequent developments have specifically addressed the mental health of younger populations. Following reports of declining adolescent well-being, psychologist Margarida Gaspar de Matos and the Aventura Social team released ‘Ser Jovem Hoje’ (Being Young Today), a book designed to help individuals aged 16 to 30 navigate emotions and self-knowledge. Additionally, in Mealhada, local authorities are developing a mental health project through a co-creation process with youth to ensure responses are based on their specific needs. Recent regional efforts have expanded clinical and financial support for youth. In Barcelos, a collaboration between the municipality and the Local Health Unit of Barcelos/Esposende (ULSBE) launched the ‘JovemMente Barcelos’ project, which has already provided clinical psychology consultations to 200 young people via the Casa da Juventude. Meanwhile, in the Azores, the Regional Directorate for Youth introduced the ‘Vale Ment(ON)’ program in Nordeste. This initiative provides a 400-euro voucher to residents aged 15 to 26 to fund individual sessions with specialized psychology professionals, focusing on emotional resilience, prevention, and life skills like self-esteem and pressure management. To observe Mental Health Awareness Month and World Mental Health Day, municipalities have launched broader community programs. Cascais has implemented a month-long series including the ‘Dá Luz Verde à Saúde Mental’ campaign to combat stigma, the ‘O Meu Olhar’ photography exhibition, and digital wellness guidance. The Cascais program also includes the ‘Café Memória’ to address elderly social isolation.

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