Preventive Psychiatry
The Section of Preventive Psychiatry brings together a global network of psychiatrists and psychiatry trainees undertaking research, teaching/ learning, clinical practice, and a diverse range of actions framed by a mental health promotion and preventive approach.
The Section’s main goal is to contribute to the development of strong, thriving, inclusive, and diverse communities, taking a multi-factorial, multi-level approach to mental health. It aims to prevent the occurrence and reduce the incidence and impact of mental health disorders worldwide and advance mental health promotion oriented and evidence-based programs and practices. Through a broad scope of action, the Section promotes discussion, research, teaching, practice, action, and dissemination of evidence-based information focused on preventing mental disorders and increasing people’s control over the elements that determine their mental health and wellbeing.
Section Officers
Chair

Olga Karpenko
Mental-health Clinic No. 1 named after N.A. Alexeev
Zagorodnoe shosse 2, Moscow, Russia
Contact here
Secretary

Rodrigo Ramalho
The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142,
New Zealand
Contact here
Section member list can be found here
Section newsletter
World Psychiatry, 24: 150-151
Christodoulou, N. and Karpenko, O. (2025), The WPA Section on Preventive Psychiatry: report on 2014-2024 activities.
Recommended readings

- Physical activity and exercise for the prevention and management of mild cognitive impairment and dementia: a collaborative international guideline
- Mental health prevention and promotion
- Minichino, A., Davies, C., Karpenko, O. et al. Preventing psychosis in people at clinical high risk: an updated meta-analysis by the World Psychiatric Association Preventive Psychiatry section. Mol Psychiatry (2025)
- WPA Healthy Lifestyle Hub