Mental health research with populations in vulnerable positions
Mental health is a big concern in Europe, especially because of the threats of climate change, digitalisation, socio-economic inequities, migration, and aging populations. We need new ideas and innovative solutions to help people during these changes, not just relying on treatment in the clinical healthcare system.
With ADVANCE, our goal is to deepen understanding and drive progress in mental health promotion and prevention research. We are developing evidence-based guidance and practical methodologies to create, adapt, implement, evaluate, and scale effective mental health initiatives (digital and hybrid) tailored to diverse populations across Europe.
Our goal
Our goal is to provide accessible, user-friendly, research-based guidance for the co-creation, evaluation, and scaling up of mental health promotion and prevention programs with people in a changing Europe.
OBJECTIVE 1: We will document current challenges and co-develop implementation and scaling-up strategies to anticipate new and emerging risks, ensure access to new mental health tools, and to reduce stigma and marginalisation.
OBJECTIVE 2: We will evaluate mental health promotion and prevention interventions to develop implementation formats in new contexts and populations. We will make sure these new strategies are based on real evidence.
OBJECTIVE 3: We will support expanding the reach of mental health promotion and prevention efforts, so that more people can benefit from them. At the same time, we'll make sure these interventions are effective.
Our approach
ADVANCE is a mental health research project that embeds three core principles into its structure. This integration sets us apart in the field of study.
Prevention and promotion
Most research today is all about treating mental health issues through specialized clinical services. But here's the catch – these clinical systems in Europe are having a tough time keeping up with the growing demand.
Now, here's where ADVANCE steps in. Instead of just dealing with the aftermath, we explore how to prevent mental health problems before they even start.
Risks in context
ADVANCE will critically reflect on some important questions: Where does distress come from? What are the roots of the problem? How can we go beyond addressing coping strategies in individual participants to better understand how contextual vulnerabilities and psychological distress interact and can be addressed in an integrated manner?
Co-development approach
This project thrives on the active involvement of young individuals, working professionals, migrants, and older adults.
Together with our Society Advisory Groups, we engage in a collaborative effort to shape policies, services, and communication that foster positive mental health. This collaborative process is guided by a psychosocial model and a human rights-based approach.
Consortium
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Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Health and Digital Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. |
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