Mental health support

On June 18, 2022, the Mad Pride took place in Bern. The aim was to raise awareness of the topic of “mental illness” and to break down prejudices. The federal government supports the commitment to mental health in Switzerland.

A person feels mentally healthy when he or she is able to utilize his or her intellectual and emotional capacities, cope with his or her daily life stresses, work productively, and contribute to society. Mental health is shaped by a variety of factors, ranging from a person’s personality and genetic makeup to their environment – everyone is different. Mental illnesses are among the most common diseases in Switzerland. They are mostly invisible and still strongly tainted with prejudice and are therefore often concealed. Affected people suffer even more as a result. Mad Pride encourages overcoming fears and talking about mental health.

Mad Pride borrows from the spirit of Gay Pride and was founded in Toronto in 1993 in response to prejudice and discrimination against people with mental illness. Mad Pride is now being held in many countries to help de-taboo, de-stigmatize and raise awareness. Mad Pride is designed to help break down negative stereotypes about mental illness and make society aware that mental illness can affect all of us at some point in our lives.

Federal Council takes on mental health

The Federal Council has also adopted the report “Intended measures mental health in Switzerland”. This sets out measures to improve mental health in Switzerland. The fields of action include

Awareness raising, destigmatization and information
Implementation of activities in the areas of health promotion, prevention and early detection.
Advocacy and knowledge bases
Structures and resources.

Switzerland has a high-quality psychiatric care system. However, there is also a need for development.