Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1517369
10 OPINION maltatoday | WEDNESDAY • 13 MARCH 2024 THE multifaceted challenges within Malta's mental health landscape underscore a broader European predicament that has been exacerbated by the COV- ID-19 pandemic. As the conversation, related to this critical subject, gains traction, Malta finds itself grappling with an escalating challenge in mental health care compounded by inad- equate resources. Within this evolving discourse, various stakeholders emerge as beacons of change, each con- tributing a unique perspective to the dialogue. From the dedicated efforts of Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) to the im- passioned advocacy of the Malta Chamber for enhanced mental health services, from the inno- vative strides of initiatives like MENT+ to the stark realities pre- sented by the shortage of child and adolescent psychiatrists, these voices collectively underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive and forward-looking response. According to recent data, more than 120,000 people in Malta, are struggling with mental health conditions. The prevalence of depression stands at 6.6%, anxiety affects 7.8%, and schizophrenia is re- ported at 0.026%. These findings underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive, holistic and in- clusive approach to mental health treatment. The call for innovation echoes throughout these narratives, em- phasising the necessity for holistic mental health programmes tai- lored to the diverse needs of our workforce. Stress management seminars, self-care initiatives, and preventive measures emerge as essential components of a resilient and thriving community, mirror- ing a broader shift in the Euro- pean Union towards recognising mental health as an integral aspect of overall well-being. More recent appeals in this re- gard, reflect a collective acknowl- edgment of the need to bridge the gap between rhetoric and action. Recommendations, ranging from community-based mental health- care to short-term improvements in specific areas of mental health facilities, underscore the imper- ative for a collaborative and mul- ti-faceted approach. The proposals advocate for the expansion of community-based mental healthcare to enable early intervention, alongside increased investment in emergency services and short-term enhancements in specific areas of Mount Carmel Hospital. While acknowledging the gov- ernment's plans for a new men- tal health facility, immediate improvements are crucial, par- ticularly in bolstering the staff- ing of community mental health teams in Gozo. Public health and the police force engagement in intervention highlights the im- portance of a collaborative, mul- ti-stakeholder approach to ad- dressing mental health challenges. As concerns are raised by child psychiatrists, it becomes increas- ingly apparent that overlook- ing the mental well-being of the younger generation carries sig- nificant societal repercussions. Tackling mental health issues in Malta and across the EU requires a joint effort from Member States, decision-making institutions, and communities alike. It is imperative for the EU to continuously refine From compassion to action: A call for change in mental health Steve Ellul is a Labour MEP candidate Steve Ellul Investing in more high-quality professional development for teachers could help improve student achievements more efficiently and effectively Stress management seminars, self-care initiatives, and preventive measures emerge as essential components of a resilient and thriving community, mirroring a broader shift in the European Union towards recognising mental health as an integral aspect of overall well-being