Psychische Wunde, physischer Schmerz – Wege aus der Stigmatisierung von mentalen Erkrankungen

On April 9, 2026, scientists discussed mental illness, acceptance, access to therapy, and the connection between mind and body in Hanover. Panel discussion with: Christian Grell Chairman of the Lower Saxony State Association of the Self-Help Association of Relatives of the Mentally Ill (AANB e.V.), Hanover Dr. Jakob Hein Psychiatrist and author, Berlin Prof. Dr. Katarina Stengler Action for the Mentally Ill (Aktion Psychisch Kranke e.V.), Bonn Helios Park-Klinikum Leipzig, Clinic for Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy Action for the Mentally Ill (Aktion Psychisch Kranke e.V.) Prof. Dr. Shuyan Liu Professor of Global Mental Health Head of the Department of Neuroscientific Population Science (PONS) and the Research Group on Environment and Mental Health, Charité University Hospital Berlin Moderator: Jana Münkel Deutschlandfunk Kultur, Berlin And this is what it's about: Anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, addictions: According to the Robert Koch Institute, around 40% of all adults were living with a mental illness in 2023. The figure was even higher for those over 80. Although more and more celebrities are speaking publicly about their diagnoses, thus raising awareness of mental illness, there is still a lack of social acceptance – and of therapy slots. This not only puts a strain on those affected and their families. Companies also feel the consequences: Absenteeism and reduced productivity lead to economic losses and pose major challenges for employers. Furthermore, current research shows that mental and physical health are closely linked. For example, heart disease and chronic pain occur more frequently when mental health is compromised. What new therapeutic approaches exist, and how can therapies be made more quickly and easily accessible? What physical consequences can mental illnesses have? And what is needed for greater social acceptance and political pressure to act?