National strategy(ies)

Italy’s strategic framework for mental health is primarily based on the National Actions Plan for Mental Health (PANSM), approved by the Unified Conference in 2013. Developed by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Interregional Technical Group on Mental Health (GISM) within the Conference of Regions, the PANSM defines public health objectives, the actions and stakeholders necessary to achieve them, and the criteria and indicators for monitoring and evaluation. 

Several operational documents have been developed from this overarching strategy to enhance the appropriateness and effectiveness of interventions implemented by the Regions, which are responsible for organising care. 

The Ministry of Health oversees PANSM implementation at the regional level, including coordinating with the Interregional Health Commission, collecting regional regulations, and developing indicators to assess the impact of adopted measures.

The 2020-2025 National Prevention Plan (PNP) also identifies mental health as a strategic priority. The plan emphasises early identification of psychological distress, prevention of risky behaviours, and the promotion of supportive environments in schools and local communities. Adolescents and young adults are a priority target group, particularly regarding emotional well-being, stress management, and the prevention of suicide and self-harm.

To implement these strategies, the Ministry of Health collaborates with regional governments, Local Health Authorities, and educational institutions. Initiatives include school-based psychological services, anti-stigma campaigns, and the promotion of mental health literacy. 

The Mental Health Information System (SISM) plays a central role in monitoring mental health initiatives, collecting and analysing national data on service access and health outcomes. The most recent national report, published in 2023, represents the eighth edition of this ongoing effort, providing updated statistics and enhancing data collection and monitoring processes. 

Improving the mental health of young people

Following the adoption of the National Action Plan for Mental Health (PANSM), two guidance documents were approved to support its implementation: 

• The Guidance Document on Residential and Semi-Residential Therapeutic-Rehabilitative Interventions for Neuropsychiatric Disorders in Children and Adolescents, which focuses on developing regional networks of residential and semi-residential therapeutic services for adolescents with severe psychiatric disorders;
• The Guidelines for Neuropsychiatric Disorders in Developmental Age, which calls for the creation of an integrated network for the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of neuropsychiatric disorders in children and adolescents.

Italian regions actively promote youth mental health through a range of coordinated actions, such as local prevention and support initiatives carried out by Local Health Authorities, awareness-raising campaigns targeting adolescents, and school-based programmes to foster mental health literacy and reduce stigma.

Several Italian cities support youth mental health, providing local psychological listening and support desks. For instance, the city of Rome operates the Psychological Support and Welcome Desk, offering young people a safe space to express discomfort, receive emotional support, and access specialised services when needed. 

These efforts are complemented by third-sector organisations, such as the Telefono Azzurro, which provides helplines for young people in distress, and align with new WHO/Europe standards on youth mental health care.