GAMIAN-Europe at EPA 2026: Showcasing EU Projects, Advocacy and Impact

GAMIAN-Europe was proud to participate in the 34th European Congress of Psychiatry (EPA 2026), held from 28–31 March 2026 in Prague, Czech Republic.

Throughout the congress, GAMIAN-Europe actively represented its portfolio of EU-funded projects, alongside its wider advocacy work and key reports. The event provided an important platform to highlight the role of patient organisations in shaping mental health research, policy and practice across Europe.

At the GAMIAN-Europe booth, participants had the opportunity to explore our ongoing EU projects and learn more about our work in amplifying the patient voice. Visitors could also engage with our publications and reports, which reflect lived experience and contribute to more inclusive and effective mental health policies.

GAMIAN-Europe also contributed to the scientific programme through active participation in key sessions.
Helen Bennett, representing GAMIAN-Europe, contributed to discussions on promoting well-being through public mental health, highlighting the importance of lived experience in shaping policy and practice.

In addition, Shaun Johnson delivered a presentation on “Navigating the Complexities and Contradictions of Mental Health Care in a Polarised World”, further emphasising the need for patient-centred approaches and inclusive dialogue in mental health systems.

These contributions reinforced the importance of embedding lived experience in research and decision-making, as well as strengthening collaboration between stakeholders across Europe.

EPA 2026 was a valuable opportunity to connect with researchers, clinicians, policymakers and partners. It also reaffirmed GAMIAN-Europe’s commitment to ensuring that the voices of people with lived experience remain at the centre of mental health innovation and policy development.

For more information on GAMIAN-Europe’s ongoing projects and initiatives, please follow it on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram, Bluesky, and YouTube.

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