A day dedicated to mental health
October 10 marks World Mental Health Day, a date that Xàtiva has taken advantage of to make visible one of the most relevant issues in contemporary society. The City Council has organized several activities designed to educate and sensitize the community about mental health and the need to promote emotional well-being.
Activities for all
Throughout the morning of Thursday, citizens were able to enjoy various actions at the door of the City Hall. Informative material from the SASEM (Care and Follow-up Service for people with serious mental health problems) has been distributed and a dynamic mural has been organized to encourage the active participation of the population. On Friday the 11th, the distribution will continue at the health center and at the Women’s House, with talks scheduled at schools throughout October.
Art and reflection: an impactful exhibition
The day culminated with the opening of the ‘Sweet disorder’ exhibition at the Casa de Cultura, presented by the artists Josep Almiñana and José Sepúlveda. This exhibition seeks to provoke a reflection on mental health through art. In addition, a round table brought together SASEM experts to discuss the importance of mental health care.
Institutional commitment to mental health
The SASEM, created in the previous legislature, offers psychosocial support to people with mental health problems. At Xàtiva, the team includes professionals such as psychologists and social workers, who work to ensure that those in need have access to appropriate resources.
The importance of coordination
Amor Amorós, first deputy mayor and councilor for Equality and Education, stressed that ‘one in four people will experience a mental health problem during their lifetime’. He insisted on the responsibility of the institutions to ensure a solid support network that can attend to any citizen in times of need.
Promising future: creation of a strategy table
Xàtiva has announced the creation of a Municipal Strategy and Action Board for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, which will be launched next year. This initiative will bring together several councils and associations to work together to improve the mental health of the population.
A step towards a more conscious society
With these initiatives, Xàtiva not only seeks to raise awareness among its population, but also to build a more inclusive and supportive environment towards those struggling with mental health problems. Collaboration between institutions is key to advancing this cause.