Mental health humanization and staff expansion of SNS endorsed by the Congress via approved report
The Spanish Congress of Deputies has taken a significant step towards enhancing mental health care services in the country by approving a comprehensive report aimed at improving mental health care. The report, which was drawn up by a Subcommittee created within the Health Commission on April 1, 2024, was the culmination of ten meetings where over 40 experts shared their insights.
The report advocates for a mental health model centered on people, with a rights-based approach and a strong emphasis on suicide prevention. It promotes the humanization of care processes and services, aiming to provide more compassionate and effective care to those in need.
The report was prompted by the alarming number of suicide cases in Spain. In 2024 alone, 3,846 lives were lost to suicide, a statistic that underscores the urgent need for action. Moreover, the report was also demanded by the 260,000 calls to the 024 helpline over the past two years, equating to approximately 500 calls a day.
The report recommends several key measures to address this pressing issue. It suggests improving the quality of suicide mortality data to ensure correct classification of episodes. It also recommends increasing the number of healthcare professionals in the National Health System, with a focus on correcting professional ratios compared to other surrounding countries.
The report further emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health issues promptly. It includes recommendations related to actions on social determinants of health and mental health, prioritizing policies such as housing and work. It also advises improving the existing information on mental health for healthcare management and epidemiological analysis.
In a bid to improve the provision of mental health services, the report promotes the interoperability of mental health information. This means that mental health data would be more easily accessible and shareable among healthcare providers, potentially leading to more coordinated and effective care.
The report also includes recommendations related to information, knowledge, and dissemination about mental health. This section aims to increase public awareness and understanding of mental health issues, thereby reducing stigma and encouraging those in need to seek help.
The report was approved with a majority vote of 313 in favour and 33 against. A motion from Vox was rejected, receiving 309 votes against and 35 in favour. Despite the approval, PP deputy María del Mar Vázquez has criticized the government for not taking immediate action after the report's approval.
The approval of this report marks a significant milestone in the fight against mental health issues in Spain. The next steps involve the implementation of the recommendations, which are expected to bring about positive changes in the mental health care landscape of the country.
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