On the day the State Budget for 2026 was presented and on the eve of World Mental Health Day, observed on Friday, it is highlighted that “Portugal continues to be among the European countries with the highest prevalence of mental health problems,” warning that “ignoring this reality is a severe social and economic mistake.”
“Acting before illness saves the State money, but above all, it saves suffering and lives,” emphasized Sofia Ramalho in a press release from the order, which insists on previously presented proposals to the Government and parties with “urgent measures” for this area.
Among these measures is the immediate reinforcement of at least 300 psychologists for health centers and the creation of a multi-annual investment plan to achieve, by the end of the legislature, a minimum ratio of one psychologist for every 5,000 users of the SNS.
The order also aims for the creation of conditions for the development of psychologists’ work in schools and higher education, as well as the Government implementing the already announced reinforcement of psychologists in clusters and public schools in priority intervention territories and contexts of greater vulnerability.
Other proposals include the creation of a national observatory for mental health and well-being and the development of conditions for more psychologists in Portuguese prison services, social reintegration teams, educational centers, and the National Institute of Legal Medicine.
The order also calls for the creation of a career framework within the Institute of Social Security, defining functional content, and strengthening the number of psychologists in nursing homes, suggesting they include not less than one full-time professional for every 40 residents.
The Government submitted the OE2026 to parliament today, just before the deadline and three days ahead of Sunday’s municipal elections.
The proposal will be discussed and voted on in general terms between October 27 and 28. The final global vote is scheduled for November 27, following the detailed debate process.
