European Parliament Urges Enhanced Mental Health Focus in Post-2024 EU Disability Policies
The European Parliament calls for integrating mental health into disability policies post-2024, highlighting systemic barriers and emphasizing inclusive, rights-based strategies.
- • European Parliament calls for integrated mental health focus in disability policies after 2024.
- • People with disabilities face higher psychological distress and systemic healthcare barriers.
- • Women with disabilities are at greater risk of violence and discrimination.
- • Nearly 29% of people with disabilities live in poverty, highlighting socio-economic challenges.
Key details
The European Parliament has called for a reinforced, comprehensive approach to mental health and psychological well-being within the framework of disability policies post-2024. Recognizing mental health as crucial to dignity and social inclusion, the Parliament emphasized that psychological support for people with disabilities should be integral, not supplementary, to public policies.
People with disabilities face significantly higher psychological distress and unmet health needs, compounded by systemic barriers to universal healthcare access. Chronic pain, affecting approximately 150 million Europeans, is closely linked with mental health challenges, underscoring the need for holistic care strategies. The report highlights that women with disabilities experience higher rates of violence and discrimination, calling for dedicated protective measures and awareness campaigns.
Further, socioeconomic disparities persist as nearly 29% of people with disabilities live in poverty, demonstrating the need for policies addressing both material accessibility and overall well-being. The European Parliament also stresses the importance of combating bullying and harassment, particularly in educational and online environments, to protect disabled children.
The report advocates transitioning from institutional care to community-based support, promoting inclusive services that respect individuals' autonomy. It also recognizes the mental health burdens on families and caregivers, emphasizing comprehensive support.
Aligned with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, this call seeks to ensure equal fundamental rights and social inclusion through early, adequate mental health interventions, quality employment, and educational opportunities for people with disabilities across the EU.
This article was translated and synthesized from Spanish sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
