Symposium: “The effect of economic crisis and austerity on mental health and services in Europe”
The crisis that has engulfed Europe since 2008 had a major impact on the economy of many countries, but its health implications received considerably less attention – despite the evidence that recessions and the economic policies adopted in response to crises have profound consequences for health. Mental health has been the most sensitive to economic changes. Recent research shows increase in depression, anxiety and substance abuse in countries most affected. Suicides have increased across Europe, departing from historical trends. While some countries tried to protect health spending, severe budget cuts have been implemented in countries like Greece, without due recognition of the growing demand for services and worsening health outcomes. After a plenary lecture on the subject by Marina Karanikolos (London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine), Dimitra Panteli (TU Berlin), Daniel Rühmkorf (FrAktion Gesundheit) and Stefanie Vogelsang (CDU) will discuss the effects of the economic crisis. The talk will be moderated by Andreas Heinz (Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin) and Daniel Rühmkorf (FrAktion Gesundheit), Berlin.
