The Mayor of Castelló, Begoña Carrasco, presided over the central event of the 'Mental Health Month' program, organized by the Castelló City Council in collaboration with various associations under the slogan 'Weaving networks in mental health'. At the event, accompanied by the Councilor for Social Welfare, Clara Adsuara, and representatives from associations, a joint manifesto was read, promoted by the Pro Mental Health Committee in the First Person and the State Network of Women of the Mental Health Spain Confederation. Also in attendance were the provincial deputy for Social Welfare, Marisa Torlá, and the delegate of the Consell, Susana Fabregat.
Carrasco emphasized the importance of 'weaving' a solid network involving institutions and entities to face the challenge of mental health. She recalled the joint work with organizations such as the Official College of Psychology of the Valencian Community and the Jaume I University, coordinated by the Social Welfare department.
As a result of this coordinated effort, the mayor announced that the 1st Municipal Mental Health Plan for the city will become a reality in 2027. This plan, which will be brought to the plenary session, aims to be a pioneering and participatory roadmap, equipped with more resources to transform the approach to mental health in Castelló.
Regarding specialized programs, the SASEM program was highlighted, which has assisted over 22 individuals with serious mental health problems in its first semester. The Social Inclusion Itinerary program was also mentioned, with 190 participants, aiming to increase employment and autonomy opportunities.
The mayor emphasized the significant increase in mental health consultations, which grew by more than 23% in 2025 according to the Ministry of Health, representing nearly 5% of the Valencian public healthcare system. She also noted that work-related absences due to psychological or psychiatric reasons are the leading cause in the province of Castellón, accounting for 21%.
The idea that 'without mental health, there is no health' was reinforced, highlighting emotional well-being as key to personal development and social inclusion. The City Council commits to continuing to weave this network of prevention and assistance.
The 'Mental Health Month' program includes activities such as the exhibition 'Occimorons', the theatrical performance «Pots ser tu, puc ser jo», a technical conference on October 23rd, a debate panel on reading and mental health on October 29th, storytelling sessions, and the performance «Patchword» on December 2nd.
