Vecchioni Foundation Launched in Milan to Combat Mental Illness Stigma
Milan, January 21 – The Vecchioni Foundation has been officially launched in Milan, an initiative spearheaded by renowned singer-songwriter Roberto Vecchioni and his wife Daria Colombo. The foundation’s establishment comes in the wake of the tragic suicide of their son, Arrigo, and is dedicated to eradicating the stigma associated with mental illness and offering crucial support to families grappling with its challenges.
A Concert in Duomo Square to Raise Awareness
The foundation’s mission includes active campaigns, educational outreach in schools, and various initiatives to destigmatize mental health issues. Among its first major undertakings, in collaboration with the Municipality of Milan and Radio Italia, will be a grand concert in Duomo Square on May 15. The Vecchioni Foundation will serve as a key partner for this event, aiming to raise public awareness and support for mental health.
The initiative was formally presented on the morning of January 20 at Palazzo Marino, highlighting the collaborative spirit behind this vital cause. Francesca Vecchioni, daughter of Roberto and Daria Vecchioni and president of the Diversity Foundation, emphasized the foundation’s intention to create a network among existing organizations dedicated to mental health. Several prominent entities have already pledged their support, including Telefono Amico, Progetto Itaca, and Intesa Sanpaolo.
Alarming Statistics on Mental Health
During the presentation, alarming statistics concerning mental health were shared:
- According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in seven adolescents lives with a mental illness.
- The Italian National Institute of Health reports that mental illness is the second leading cause of death among young people aged 15 to 29, after road accidents.
- Across the European Union, 11 million people suffer from mental disorders, with 13 percent of these being young individuals.
Furthermore, post-COVID-19 data for Lombardy alone reveals a staggering 147 percent increase in suicidal intentions and a 15.25 percent rise in neuropsychiatric disorders. These figures underscore the urgent need for initiatives like the Vecchioni Foundation to address the growing mental health crisis.
Future Initiatives and Call to Action
The Vecchioni Foundation is committed to a multi-faceted approach to combat stigma, including ongoing public awareness campaigns, educational programs in schools, and community-based initiatives. The upcoming concert in Duomo Square on May 15 is anticipated to be a significant step in galvanizing public support and fostering a more understanding environment for those affected by mental illness.
The foundation’s efforts are set to make a substantial impact on the perception and treatment of mental health in Milan and beyond, striving to create a society where mental illness is openly discussed and those who suffer receive the compassion and support they need.
Source: ilgazzettinometropolitano.it
