European Union Highlights Digital Risks and Communication on World Mental Health Day
On the occasion of World Mental Health Day 2026, the European Union is drawing attention to the importance of mental health and emphasizing new regulatory measures to protect children from risks in the digital world.
On the occasion of World Mental Health Day on October 10, the European Union called for societal awareness against mental health issues under the theme 'Lived experience must be heard: real voices, real change.' The bloc is pursuing a comprehensive strategy, particularly to protect children from threats such as addictive designs on social media and cyberbullying.
Societal Awareness in Mental Health
Common mental health issues such as anxiety and depression directly affect individuals' school, work, and social lives, leading to serious economic consequences. A 2023 study revealed that nearly half of Europeans experienced emotional or psychological difficulties.
Child Safety in the Digital World
The European Union closely monitors the impacts of digitalization on mental health. In particular, protecting children against cyber violence and addictive design elements on social media platforms ranks among the bloc's priority agenda items.
Proposed last month, the EU KIDS Act aims to restrict access to social media platforms for children under 13 and establish a common age limit across Europe for account creation.
Comprehensive Mental Health Approach
With the comprehensive mental health approach adopted in 2023, the European Union aims to strengthen preventive measures. This strategy seeks to enhance individuals' overall well-being by addressing behavioral, social, and environmental risk factors.