The role of Universities in promoting Mental Health | Católica's contribution to SDG#3

"In 2015, the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) #3 was set to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages by 2030. However, the latest WHO Mental Health Report (2022) indicates that one billion people (more than 1 in 8 adults and adolescents) worldwide still suffer from a mental disorder, such as depression or anxiety.

Moreover, the 2024 SDG Report highlighted the global progress is “alarmingly insufficient”, falling significantly short of the targets set. Specifically, concerning mental health, a reduction by a third of the mortality rate from intentional self-harm/suicide is expected by 2030 (SDG 3.4.2. indicator). How can this be achieved?

It is essential to assume an integrated, developmental, and systemic approach. In this context, Universities play a paramount role in SDG3, through Teaching (e.g., psychologists’ training), Research (e.g., identification of predictors of mental health), and University Social Responsibility activities (e.g., services in the community).

At Universidade Católica Portuguesa we have worked to enhance mental health and psychological well-being of the community, through the University Psychology Clinic, a service provided by the Faculty of Education and Psychology, since 2007.

In addition to a psychotherapeutic framework, an early approach to promoting mental health and preventing mental disorders is crucial. Thus, at our university, we have designed and implemented numerous initiatives, such as the recently launched CP2 Saúde Mental project, which aims to create an integrated system for promoting mental health.

We have also developed initiatives aimed at promoting mental health skills in children and parents. For instance, the project “Sou Capaz”, aims to develop skills such as self-awareness, self-control, social awareness, relation skills and responsible decision-making in children. The programme “Aprender a Educar” develops positive parenting practices in order to promote mental health.

By implementing supportive policies, providing psychological services, creating and fostering awareness for students and for community, Universities play a crucial role in achieving SDG#3."

Lurdes Veríssimo
Coordinator of University Psychology Clinic (CUP)
Professor at Universidade Católica Portuguesa

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