JP Madeira Advocates for Enhanced Youth Mental Health Policies
Madeira GuideIn a recent visit to Casa de Saúde São João de Deus, JP Madeira underscored the need for prioritizing youth mental health in policy-making. The initiative aims to address growing concerns about young people's mental health on the island.
The Juventude Popular (JP) Madeira, an affiliate of the CDS-PP Madeira, has called for urgent prioritization of youth mental health in local policies. This call to action was highlighted during their visit to the Casa de Saúde São João de Deus, a renowned mental health institution on Madeira Island.
During the visit, JP Madeira representatives, including Leandro Silva, João Pedro Sousa, and Roberto Gouveia, engaged with the institution's directors and healthcare professionals. They were particularly struck by the significant number of young patients, many facing complex mental health challenges.
As part of their initiative titled 'Mental Health Journeys – A Generation that Listens', the group emphasized the urgent need for enhanced prevention, ongoing support, and increased response capabilities to address mental health concerns among the youth.
A key concern raised was the early exposure to digital technologies and its impact on mental health, alongside traditional addiction issues and challenges in social reintegration. JP Madeira praised the Casa de Saúde's century-long commitment to mental health excellence and its proactive approach in schools, encouraging students to become volunteers.
However, the discussions also highlighted unresolved issues in the region, such as the shortage of transitional housing and independent living apartments, which are crucial for the effective reintegration of patients.
We cannot continue to treat youth mental health as a secondary issue. The data and testimonies we gathered show that this is a serious reality that requires more prevention, support, and response capabilities.
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Madeira Guide
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