Pfizer Involved in Strategy to Prevent Mental Illness

The research-based pharmaceutical company Pfizer hosted an online event titled "Mental Health – Out of Defense," where health experts discussed strategies for preventing mental illnesses such as depression and burnout. The discussion emphasized that prevention is the most effective medicine and should begin as early as possible.

Factors like the pandemic and geopolitical crises have accelerated a rise in mental illnesses in Germany. According to a report by health insurer DAK, absences due to mental health conditions have significantly increased, becoming the second most common cause of sick leave.

Experts, including psychiatrist Matthias Albers, stressed the importance of initiating preventive measures in kindergartens and schools. They advocate for educating people on stress management and creating structures that reduce unnecessary stress. Strengthening families, promoting social networks, and enhancing health literacy were also highlighted as crucial.

The discussion also addressed the need to increase the number of psychotherapists and improve their accessibility, particularly for children and adolescents and in rural areas. Insufficient funding for prevention and budget cuts were criticized. Defining goals and measuring their achievement were identified as essential components of prevention efforts.