Mental health has become one of the major healthcare priorities in Europe, and cooperation between territories is key to making effective and equitable progress. In this context, the Marqués de Valdecilla Health Research Institute (IDIVAL) plays a relevant role in the Joint Action PRISM (JA PRISM), an ambitious European project that brings together 59 organisations from 20 countries with the shared goal of improving the mental health of the most vulnerable population groups.
JA PRISM, funded with €6 million by the EU4Health programme and coordinated by Biosistemak, officially kicked off in September in Bilbao. The project adopts a human rights–based and prevention-oriented approach, promoting the transfer and implementation of good practices across all European Union Member States and associated countries.
Within this framework, IDIVAL contributes its scientific and technical expertise through its participation in the BIZI programme, one of the three practices selected within JA PRISM. BIZI is an online training course focused on suicide prevention, aimed at key profiles such as social services professionals, pharmacists, associations and helplines. Its objective is to equip community agents with the knowledge and tools needed to detect risk signals, provide initial support and facilitate access to specialised resources.
In October, the Bilbao Exhibition Centre (BEC) hosted the first study visit of the BIZI programme, coordinated by Biosistemak, with the participation of more than 30 in-person experts and 47 online attendees. During this meeting, representatives from IDIVAL, including Rosa Ayesa and Covadonga García San Nicolás from the Mental Health Research Group, actively contributed to the discussion on adapting the programme to different European contexts, highlighting scientific evidence and the experience accumulated in the field of mental health.
Recognised by the European Commission as a promising practice, the BIZI programme stands out for being bilingual, free of charge and interactive, and for combining theoretical content with practical cases applicable to real-life situations. IDIVAL’s involvement in its development and transfer strengthens the institute’s positioning as a key player in mental health research and innovation at the European level.
Through its participation in JA PRISM, IDIVAL reaffirms its commitment to a more cohesive and supportive Europe, where prevention, equity and respect for human rights are fundamental pillars for improving the mental health and well-being of citizens.
(Co-)funded by the European Union. The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or HaDEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
