The Cascais Mental Health Initiative improves equitable access to diverse mental health services for vulnerable groups.
ADDRESSING MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS IN PORTUGAL
The Cascais Mental Health Initiative responds to the growing need for mental health support in the municipality, acknowledging that Portugal has one of the highest incidences of mental disorders in Europe (22.9% of the population). Its main goal is to ensure equitable access to mental health services, particularly for vulnerable groups, through the decentralization and diversification of available resources.
DIVERSE SERVICES AND COMMUNITY-BASED CARE
Key actions include the creation of the Health+ Unit, offering specialised and accessible mental health care; Open-Air Consultations, providing mental health support in public spaces; the Incorpora Programme, reducing psychiatric hospitalisations through community-based care; the Turning the Page Project, supporting social reintegration; and the Health in Schools Platform, promoting mental health literacy among students. A core element of the initiative is the activation of Cascais Life Labs: community-based spaces located in critical urban areas that offer free consultations and personalised support. These labs promote emotional well-being through art, mentoring, and professional guidance, while also reducing territorial inequalities and fostering social cohesion.
IMPACT AND SUSTAINABLE MUNICIPAL COMMITMENT
Between 2023 and 2024, the initiative provided 13,593 consultations supporting 771 people. The Cascais Mental Health Initiative represents an innovative and sustainable municipal commitment to mental health, ensuring that all citizens have access to quality, human-centred, and stigma-free care.
