Prevention instead of Reaction: Why mental health deserves more attention

Perhaps some of you have already noticed: Psychotherapeutic care in Switzerland is in crisis. Waiting times of several months, overburdened professionals, a healthcare system operating at its limits: anyone currently seeking psychological support in Switzerland too often encounters closed doors. This can have serious consequences, especially for people in acute crises.

Not only psychiatrists, but also psychotherapists provide indispensable work – yet they repeatedly have to fight for fair working conditions and societal recognition. This alone says a lot about the still low priority given to mental health in our country. It also clearly shows that the healthcare system only partially fulfills its responsibility to adequately care for the population.

More than just psychotherapy: a narrow perspective

Behind this lies a fundamental problem: our healthcare system is heavily reactive. It typically intervenes only once a diagnosis is made and a “mental illness” is present – and indeed, only psychiatrists or psychotherapists are legally allowed to treat these conditions, which is appropriate. But why do we wait until then to focus on health? Early support through counseling, coaching, or specialized social services often remains invisible, even though this is exactly where problems could be intercepted before they become chronic.

A personal perspective

As a professional counsellor, I experience daily how effective low-threshold support can be, and I see a significant gap in our system – but also an equally significant opportunity. Counseling sessions are often more accessible, lower-threshold, and can work preventively. People do not have to wait until they are in an acute crisis to receive help. They can begin addressing their issues earlier, develop resilience, and gain clarity. This not only relieves pressure on the psychotherapeutic system but also opens new pathways to mental health. Often, all it takes is a safe, professional space where concerns can be voiced, patterns recognized, and concrete action steps developed.

A healthcare system that has not yet understood

So far, the Swiss healthcare system has hardly recognized this diversity. While doctors and psychotherapists (rightly) remain in focus, counselors and other professionals often remain invisible – even though their work provides many people with access to support in the first place. A modern understanding of mental health must start here: with the recognition that there is not just one “right” and rigid path.

What needs to change for better mental health care in Switzerland?

• Fair working conditions for psychotherapists:The 2022 Ordinance Model was intended to facilitate access to psychotherapy through basic insurance. In practice, however, impractical regulations, unclear tariffs, and high administrative burdens (76% of therapists consider this too high) make treatment more difficult. Clear structures, less bureaucracy, and fair conditions are urgently needed so that therapists can invest their time in people – not paperwork.

but also:

• Societal recognition:The valuable work of psychological and psychosocial counselors needs to be more visible in public perception.

  
  

• Better integration:Healthcare, psychotherapy, and counseling should interconnect rather than operate in isolated silos. Seamless cooperation would make access easier for patients and those seeking guidance.

  
  

• Strengthening prevention:Early support through counseling can prevent stress and challenges from developing into disorders. Instead of reacting only when illness occurs, we need a system that actively promotes health.

No, mental health is not a luxury but a fundamental prerequisite for a stable, fulfilling life. To ensure it comprehensively, prevention must be taken as seriously as treatment. Mental health is not a side issue – it is a shared societal project. When therapists, counselors, and the system as a whole work together, we create an environment in which people can grow, develop resilience, and strengthen their mental health before crises arise.