Women in Santa Coloma de Gramenet and Sant Martí are reporting significantly higher rates of depression and anxiety than men, according to preliminary findings from the European MENTBEST project, a community-based initiative focused on preventing suicide, reducing depression and improving emotional wellbeing. The survey, carried out among around 1,000 people, found that 32.9% of women reported having received a diagnosis of depression during their lifetime, compared with 20.0% of men. Clinically relevant depressive symptoms were reported by 22% of women and 16% of men, while clinically relevant anxiety symptoms affected 35% of women compared with 27% of men. The study also found that men were more likely to express negative beliefs about people with depression, attitudes that may create additional barriers to recovery.
Santa Coloma is the only territory in Spain taking part in MENTBEST, a European Union project being implemented in five countries. Led locally by Dr. Benedikt Amann of Hospital del Mar Barcelona, the initiative works across the community to tackle suicide prevention, depression and emotional distress, particularly among vulnerable groups. Now in its second year, the project has already delivered training for 291 professionals, workshops for 744 young people, and sessions for relatives of people experiencing mental health problems. Its public outreach has also included awareness events, music festivals, talks on suicide prevention, psychoeducation campaigns and support for inclusive sport through the Lliga Talent football initiative. A new population survey is planned next year to assess the impact of the programme.
One of MENTBEST’s community initiatives in Santa Coloma includes support for inclusive football through the Lliga Talent programme.
A MENTBEST awareness poster displayed in the Santa Coloma metro as part of the project’s community mental health outreach campaign.