Actors gather in Dijon for mental health discussion

Over 300 actors met in Dijon on October 7 at the initiative of the regional health agency, ARS, to address mental health priorities in the region. The event aimed to bring together professionals and stakeholders to discuss strategies for improving mental health care and reducing stigma.

ARS outlines mental health goals

Mathilde Marmier, director general of the ARS, highlighted key objectives including reducing stigma, improving early detection, and ensuring faster access to care. The agency also aims to expand mental health services from initial contact to specialized care, addressing gaps in the current system.

Regional mental health statistics revealed

Regional data shows that 125,000 people in the area are identified as living with a psychiatric illness. In 2024, nearly 4,900 hospitalizations followed self-inflicted acts, with 2,200 involving young people aged 11 to 24. This number has doubled in the past five years for that age group.

Access to psychiatrists remains a challenge

The region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté has 6.7 psychiatrists per 100,000 inhabitants, compared to the national average of 9.6. This shortage highlights the difficulty in accessing specialized mental health care for many residents.

Territorial Mental Health Projects launched

To address these challenges, the ARS is implementing Territorial Mental Health Projects (PTSM) across the region's eight departments. These projects aim to coordinate efforts between health, social, and community organizations to improve mental health care delivery.

New initiatives in Côte-d'Or and Nièvre

In Côte-d'Or, a new mental health project was signed on October 5, focusing on suicide prevention and creating more inclusive environments. In Nièvre, a five-year plan with 56 actions was announced on October 14, following extensive collaboration among 11 pilot institutions since September 2025.

Associations play key role in mental health support

The ARS emphasizes the importance of the associative sector in supporting young people with multiple vulnerabilities. Events such as forums, theater-debates, and exhibitions have been organized during the SISM, a regional mental health week, to raise awareness and encourage community involvement.

Regional roadmap under development

A regional roadmap is being finalized to maintain the momentum of these initiatives. Mental health has been designated as the National Major Cause for 2026, reinforcing its priority status in public health policy.