Investing in prevention and strengthening the care network, from schools to workplaces, while ensuring adequate staff and resources for health services. This is the call made by Generazione Libera on the occasion of World Mental Health Day, marked on October 10. In its statement, the movement focuses on the care needs in San Marino and the role of the community in combating isolation.
“Talking about emotional wellbeing is no longer taboo, and that is a civic achievement. However, every October 10, World Mental Health Day risks becoming a mere formality unless we address distress with clarity of data and a sense of collective responsibility,” the statement reads.
Generazione Libera cites estimates from the World Health Organization and refers to reports from the Institute for Social Security (ISS), according to which more than 1,400 residents make use of specialist and psychological care services every year.
“San Marino is no exception. Despite our valuable tradition of universal welfare, the Social Security Institute’s reports point to a growing complexity. Consider that over 1,400 residents rely on specialist and psychological assistance services each year. Out of a population of roughly 34,000 inhabitants, this is proof that psychological distress cuts across all age groups.”
The movement expressed its gratitude to healthcare and social-healthcare workers: “Psychologists, doctors, nurses, educators and professionals in the social-healthcare sector carry out quiet yet invaluable work, taking on the fragilities of citizens with attentiveness, expertise and empathy. Our sincerest gratitude goes to them for their constant commitment in ensuring quality care on Mount Titano.”
Adolescent distress and loneliness among the elderly are two of the key issues highlighted in the statement. It references a UNICEF estimate according to which more than 13% of young people aged 10 to 19 live with a diagnosed disorder, with anxiety and depression among the most common problems.
“In our schools, this translates into school-related anxiety and social isolation. On the other end of the spectrum, the progressive aging of the population and the rise in single-person households — which today account for more than a third of families in San Marino — present new challenges related to elderly loneliness and family support,” writes Generazione Libera.
Within this context, the movement also points to the potential contribution of housing policies, referring to San Marino’s legislation on cohousing and intergenerational cohabitation. According to the statement, such a tool can complement existing support networks, fostering relationships between generations and counteracting social isolation.
The call is to address distress beyond healthcare facilities as well. “For Generazione Libera, continuing to invest in prevention and in promoting psychological wellbeing must remain a priority — starting with schools, workplaces and community spaces. Intervening before distress turns into suffering means caring for people, strengthening social bonds, and building a more attentive and inclusive community. Care, in fact, is not confined to healthcare facilities, but also lives in the ability of the entire community to welcome, listen and accompany.”
The concluding appeal concerns political decision-making and support for the ISS: “The true responsibility of politics does not lie in formal participation in commemorative dates, but in the capacity to strengthen a protective network that is empathetic and close to citizens. Ensuring stable resources, adequate staffing levels, and full support for ISS workers who face these daily challenges are the only concrete steps toward making parity between physical and mental health a genuine, shared asset for all citizens.”
