M. Jakubauskiene discussed the issues of prevention, critical medicines, and children's mental health at the EU ministers' meeting
On Tuesday, Minister of Health Marija Jakubauskiene discussed the sustainability and resilience of health systems in the face of modern challenges and threats with her colleagues from other European Union (EU) countries in Warsaw. The informal meeting also addressed the impact of digital technologies on the mental health of children and adolescents.
“Investing in public health is a future-oriented strategy that ensures the well-being of both current and future generations. With limited resources, a targeted strategic approach allows us to achieve the best outcomes and tackle the most complex issues. Investment programs such as EU4Health and Horizon Europe help member countries strengthen innovation, progress, and public health. Cooperation among member states not only helps expand the reach and effectiveness of initiatives but also strengthens the sense of unity and shared responsibility,” - said M. Jakubauskiene at the informal EU Health Ministers' meeting.
One of the latest challenges is the negative impact of digital technology development on children and adolescents. Although research is still ongoing to fully understand their effects, experts are already sounding the alarm that addiction to digital technologies, excessive use, the negative impact of social media on self-esteem, violent and pornographic content, as well as aggression and bullying in the digital space, are harming the mental health of youth and may have significant long-term consequences.
Minister M. Jakubauskiene presented to her colleagues from other countries Lithuania's experience in protecting and strengthening the mental health of children and adolescents, as well as ongoing discussions in Lithuania regarding the restriction of mobile phones in schools.
According to M. Jakubauskiene, addressing the challenges posed by digital technologies would be aided by a common EU strategy: unified rules and internet safety standards, joint efforts to strengthen digital literacy and knowledge about mental health, a cross-border cooperation platform for experts and social partners, and promoting research on the impact of digital technologies on mental health.
Communication Division
Last updated: 23-04-2025
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