EP - Eating Disorders, Mental Health and EU Policies: Challenges and Future Perspectives
"Eating Disorders, Mental Health and EU Policies: Challenges and Future Perspectives"
EP Room SPINELLI 5E3
4 March 2025
(16h00-18h00 CET)
As part of the Eating Disorders Awareness Week this March, EP Vice President Antonella Sberna and MEP Maria Walsh are hosting and chairing the European Food Forum event on eating disorders, mental health, and European Union policies. This event will examine the current regulatory landscape and the EU’s strategies for preventing and treating eating disorders, as well as explore the crucial role of mental health and nutrition in European healthcare policies, identifying ways to enhance their integration for more effective support.
A key focus will be on the broader social determinants that influence mental health, including limited education, gender inequality, poverty, and unemployment. Addressing these factors through a comprehensive, intersectoral approach is essential to promoting mental well-being and ensuring early intervention when challenges arise.
Additionally, the event will explore the role of social media and influencers in shaping youth behaviors, particularly their impact on body image and the promotion of unhealthy habits. As digital platforms continue to play a significant role in young people's lives, it is crucial to assess their influence and consider strategies to foster healthier online environments.
While awareness and treatment options have expanded, challenges like misinformation, accessibility, and evolving societal norms continue to shape how these disorders are understood and managed. By fostering an open dialogue among policymakers, healthcare professionals, associations, and those affected, this event aims to drive forward-thinking solutions in regulation and healthcare.
Draft Agenda
Moderator: Filippo Giuffrida Répaci - Director at RadioCom.tv
16:00 - 16:10 Opening Remarks by MEP Antonella Sberna and MEP Maria Walsh
16:10 - 16:45 Panel Discussion 1: Regulatory Landscape on health-related policies – Eating Disorders and Mental Health
- Marianne Takki – Policies addressing mental health and eating disorders (TBC)
- Umberto Nizzoli – Do we need a better policy framework for Eating Disorders?
- Think Tank/Academia – The need for a Holistic Mental Health Strategy (TBC)
- Tim Chadborn – Behavioural Scientist, WHO Behavioural Insights Unit (TBC)
16:45 – 17:50 Panel Discussion 2: Towards Future Solutions and Policies
- Nadia Accetti – Experience, activities, best practices, and envisaged solutions
- NGO Mental Health – Activities, projects, and envisaged solutions (TBC)
- Marco Pancini – The role of social media platforms and their contribution to a healthier online environment (TBC)
- Zeynep Demirelli Sağ, MSc. – Psychologist, Influencer @realistic.body.therapist – Testimony and expectations from policymakers
- MEP Maria Walsh
- MEP Antonella Sberna
17:50 - 18:00 Closing Remarks by MEPs Antonella Sberna and Maria Walsh
Staff