Global Alliance for Brain Health: First-Ever International Meeting in Bern

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4 days ago
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The Brain: A Pillar of Human Health and Potential

The brain is essential for our physical, mental, social health and well-being, enabling us to realise our potential as individuals and society.

Brain disorders, which include neurological and mental disorders, affect over 30% of the population and are today one of the major causes of suffering, disability, mortality and costs.

WHO Response: Prioritising Brain and Mental Health

In response to this high and still increasing burden, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recognised mental and neurological health, “two sides of the same coin”, as a public health priority that needs to be valued, promoted, and protected throughout life. Accordingly, the WHO launched plans on Mental Health in 2013, on Dementia in 2017 and on Neurological Health and Disorders in 2022.

Following these WHO calls for action, several national, regional and societal plans were launched across the globe. The targets of these Brain and Mental Health Plans are similar and include such topics as awareness and advocacy, education of new workforces, brain research, coordinated and intersectoral programmes to promote brain health and prevent neurological and mental disorders, and - last but not least - affirm the rights of affected individuals and caregivers to the highest possible levels of health, equal rights, opportunities, respect and autonomy.

Historic Gathering in Bern: 21 Delegations, One Common Mission

On the 12-13th of June 2025, representatives from 21 national, regional and societal initiatives will meet in Bern under the auspices of the Swiss Brain Health Plan (see box below*) and the WHO to exchange their experiences in the development of Brain and Mental Health Plans across the entire world (you can see the full programme here.)

While regional and national initiatives obviously need to take into consideration local needs, gaps, and opportunities, this first-ever international meeting will offer the unique opportunity to learn from each other and discuss together overarching strategies, benchmarks, and indicators for the implementation of brain and mental health plans.

We express our thanks to all those who made this event possible, including the Federal Office of Public Health, the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, the Italian Ministry of Health, the WHO, the University of Bern, and the Swiss Brain Health Foundation.

Author: Prof. Claudio L.A. Bassetti for the Boards of the Swiss Brain Health Plan and Swiss Brain Health Foundation

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*The Swiss Brain Health Plan was launched in 2022 and published in 2023 to raise awareness, create innovative educational programs and foster research. The plan also aims at coordinating novel public health strategies to promote brain health and prevent neurological and psychiatric diseases across the entire life-course and -last but not least to support, empower, and engage patients and caregivers.