VASCERN joins the global community to highlight the importance of mental health, especially for people living with rare vascular diseases, during the European Mental Health Week from 13-19 May 2024. This year’s theme “Co-Creation” emphasizes the need for collaboration to achieve better mental health for all.
We recognize that mental health is integral to overall health, especially for those dealing with the unique challenges of rare vascular diseases. In October 2023, we proudly launched our Psychology Working Group, a dedicated group to address the mental health needs of our community through collaboration and specialized care.
Living with a rare vascular disease often means that you are faced with uncertainty, isolation, and a host of emotional challenges. The psychological impact can be profound, affecting not only patients, but also their families and caregivers.
The Psychology Working Group was created to facilitate collaboration between psychologists, healthcare professionals, and patients. The group’s mission is to create an environment where mental health issues are treated with the same urgency and care as physical health issues.
Key Objectives:
- Collaborative Research and Best Practices: By bringing together experts from various fields, the group aims to advance research on the mental health impact of rare vascular diseases, share best practices, and develop tailored interventions.
- Patient Support and Resources: Understanding the psychological burden of living with a rare vascular disease is critical. This working group is dedicated to providing patients with the resources, support systems, and coping strategies they need to navigate their journey.
- Training and Education: Ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care means educating healthcare professionals about the mental health aspects of rare vascular diseases. This group aims to equip professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge through educational webinars.
Although the Psychology Working Group has not yet produced any formal documents, it is actively working on several innovative projects aimed at improving mental health care for people with rare vascular diseases.
We encourage you to stay tuned for updates and new resources. For more information on the group, click here.
We invite you to help spread awareness and advocate for mental health. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those impacted by rare vascular diseases. Remember, we are better together.