Mental Health Challenges and Initiatives Target Vulnerable Groups in Spain

Recent reports and initiatives across Spain highlight the growing mental health challenges faced by vulnerable groups, particularly single-parent mothers, healthcare workers, and adolescents, as well as community efforts to support mental well-being.

A study by the Association of Single-Parent Families of the Balearic Islands (FAMOIB), funded by the Balearic Institute for Women (IBDona), reveals alarming mental health risks for mothers heading single-parent families in the Balearic Islands. Over 90% of these families are led by women, with 50.7% reporting frequent stress and 28.8% experiencing anxiety regularly. Key factors include work overload, caregiving duties, and lack of work flexibility; 41.5% describe their jobs as "not flexible at all," and 40.6% have resorted to medication for sleep problems due to stress. The report found that 88.2% believe their family situation impedes balancing work and personal life, while 55.8% often feel frustrated and 57.2% have sought professional help. Many women feel underserved by existing reconciliation resources. Catalina Servera, FAMOIB president, stated, "Single-parent women in Balearic Islands bear the burden of a double shift that jeopardizes their mental health," calling for institutional measures including improved work flexibility and enhanced access to affordable care services.

Meanwhile, the EU-OSHA report draws attention to mental health risks among healthcare and social workers across the EU, including Spain. With over 21.5 million employed in this sector, 31% report work-related mental health issues such as anxiety and burnout. The report cites high workloads, irregular shifts, emotional strain, and insufficient support as critical causes. It recommends organizational improvements to alleviate stress and prevent psychological harm.

Efforts to promote mental health extend to adolescents in Galicia, where the Pontevedra Provincial Council will launch the "En plan ben" program in March, offering workshops on emotional well-being and mental health for students, teachers, and families at institutes in Silleda and Cerdedo-Cotobade.

Additionally, the Official College of Psychologists of Andalusia Occidental has initiated the "Psychology and Carnival" award at the 2026 Cádiz Carnival, encouraging adult groups to explore themes of psychology and mental health through socially committed carnival songs.

These varied initiatives and findings illustrate Spain's multifaceted approach to addressing mental health risks among at-risk groups by combining research-driven policy recommendations with community and cultural engagement programs.