Why is mental health prevention a priority today?
- Hélène Zapata
- May 14
- 3 min read
Today, mental health is no longer a secondary issue. It stands as a critical priority for our societies, as the consequences of untreated psychological disorders are significant—personally, socially, and economically.
Psychological conditions such as anxiety, depression, and burnout now affect a growing number of professionals and young people alike.
In Europe, 1 in 6 people is estimated to suffer from mental health disorders, according to the latest WHO data. These conditions not only diminish individuals' quality of life but also impact their families and the broader communities they live in.
Without effective intervention, such issues often lead to isolation, reduced professional capacity, and in some cases, a breakdown in social connections. This is why prevention is a vital tool in avoiding such negative outcomes.
Mental Health: A National Public Health Priority in France
Mental health has become a critical public health priority in France. The government has declared it a Great National Cause for the year 2025, with four fundamental objectives:
Destigmatizing mental health disorders
Prevention and early detection
Improving access to care
Supporting all dimensions of daily life
These goals highlight the importance of collective action to address the growing needs in this area.
Prevention and Early Detection: Vital Interventions
Mental health is not just about treatment after symptoms appear. Acting upstream is essential to prevent disorders from developing or worsening. According to the OECD, 56% of European workers believe their mental health is not adequately addressed by their employers.
Building a culture of prevention and early detection is one of the national priorities. This involves raising awareness across all sectors: schools, workplaces, public institutions, and families. The earlier mental health issues are identified, the better the chances for recovery or symptom management.
Training teachers, managers, and healthcare professionals to recognize signs of psychological distress enables faster and more effective intervention. New initiatives, such as expanding mental health education programs, must be promoted to reach a broader population.
Improving Access to Mental Health Care Nationwide
Access to mental health care remains uneven across regions. The 2025 initiative aims to reduce these disparities by developing new facilities, such as mental health centers and youth clinics, to better support and guide vulnerable populations.
Improving care pathways, creating new specialized mental health professions, and enhancing coordination among healthcare providers will ensure that each person receives support tailored to the complexity of their condition.
A Holistic Approach to Mental Health for Better Quality of Life
Mental health is not limited to clinical care. It affects all aspects of daily life—employment, housing, education, and leisure. Supporting people with mental health disorders in these areas contributes to overall well-being and social reintegration.
It is essential to multiply inclusive and compassionate initiatives, ensuring everyone has access to the resources they need to build a fulfilling life.
After physical health took center stage in 2024, mental health prevention is now a national priority in France. Based on the goals of the Great National Cause 2025, we have a unique opportunity to transform the mental health landscape—focusing on destigmatization, prevention, access to care, and holistic support.
The future of mental health in France is full of hope.As we move toward 2025, we have the chance to make mental health prevention a cornerstone of our society. The challenges ahead are opportunities to strengthen our collective resilience. Let us build a more open, inclusive, and compassionate society—where everyone has the means to thrive in all aspects of life. The future of mental health is in our hands, and it holds great promise.
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