24 September 2026
GAMIAN-Europe joined the first JA PRISM General Assembly in Rome on 22–23 September 2026. The meeting brought together project partners and stakeholders from across Europe.
During the two-day event, participants reviewed the project’s first year and discussed the next steps.
Representing GAMIAN-Europe, Karl Lavò gave a keynote presentation on lived experience in mental health research and policy. He focused on how organisations can involve people with lived experience in a meaningful way.
A key message was the need to involve people from the start. Their views can help shape research questions, priorities and project activities. In addition, they can contribute to how organisations communicate and use the results.
Karl also shared examples from GAMIAN-Europe’s work. These showed how lived experience can support research and policy throughout a project.
However, meaningful involvement should go beyond simply inviting people to take part. Organisations should also consider the impact of their contribution. One useful question is: what changed because people with lived experience were involved?
For GAMIAN-Europe, this is an important part of meaningful patient involvement. People with lived experience should have real opportunities to share their views and influence decisions.
About JA PRISM
JA PRISM – Prevention-oriented, rights-based approach to Support Mental health in vulnerable population groups – is a European Joint Action.
The project aims to strengthen mental health promotion and prevention across Europe. It focuses on areas such as suicide prevention and loneliness among older people. It also works to support the emotional wellbeing of children and young people.
GAMIAN-Europe looks forward to continuing its work within JA PRISM on the advisory board. We will also continue to promote meaningful involvement of people with lived experience in mental health initiatives across Europe.
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