Across Europe, millions of adults face mental health challenges—often in silence. These individuals are frequently supported by family members who take on the demanding role of caregiver, often without training, recognition, or sufficient support. Family caregivers are essential to the mental health care system, yet they frequently experience emotional strain, isolation, and burnout. Addressing these challenges is urgent and necessary.

At EPIONI, we are very glad to be part of the European Erasmus+ project MENTAL-CARE, alongside committed partners from Finland, Spain, Croatia, and Belgium. This collaborative initiative aims to enhance support, foster cooperation, and promote inclusive practices in mental health care across Europe.

Project Objectives

The MENTAL-CARE project seeks to:

  1. Improve support systems for adults living with mental health conditions and their family caregivers throughout Europe.
  2. Foster collaboration and knowledge exchange between professionals, organizations, and stakeholders in the mental health field.
  3. Promote effective communication and cooperation among mental health users, healthcare professionals, and family members.
  4. Raise awareness and understanding of mental health issues to help reduce stigma and promote inclusion.

What Are We Doing?

To achieve these goals, the project includes the following key activities:

  • Good Practices Guide with video content: “Supporting Adults with Mental Health Conditions and Their Family Caregivers in Europe”, showcasing successful approaches and real-life examples from across Europe.
  • Three-Day Learning Activity (20–22 February 2025) at the University Hospital Vrapče in Croatia, including study visits and interactive workshops.
  • Learning Activity in Stockholm, Sweden (6-7 June 2025), in partnership with EUFAMI, focusing on effective cooperation and communication among mental health users, professionals, and family members.
  • Four Awareness Events during European Mental Health Week 2026, to engage the public, reduce stigma, and promote better understanding.

Expected Results

Through these activities, we expect to achieve:

  1. Greater understanding and dissemination of good practices for supporting mental health and family caregiving across Europe.
  2. Stronger collaboration and knowledge exchange through hands-on learning, workshops, and site visits.
  3. Improved communication and cooperation among mental health users, professionals, and family caregivers.
  4. Enhanced public awareness and advocacy for mental health through impactful awareness events.

We are proud to contribute to this important initiative and look forward to sharing knowledge, building networks, and promoting more inclusive and compassionate mental health care systems.

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