The project aims to reduce the frequency of suicide, suicide attempts and the repetition rate of suicide attempts in various European countries, by assessing the magnitude of the problem (monitoring of suicides and suicide attempts), the identification of groups at risk, risk factors, and specific variables (methods, “hot spots”, time variables etc.) which can be influenced to prevent this behaviour. Based on these findings guidelines for prevention of suicides and suicides attempts should be developed, e. g. regulations for access to suicide means, prevention of suicide imitation recommendations for the selling of pharmaceuticals used for suicide attempts, guidelines for secondary and tertiary suicide prevention (treatment of suicide attempters). Through a common assessment, studies of preventive measures in various centres, and the evaluation of such measures in a large number of EU and candidate countries it will be possible to develop such guidelines for suicide prevention.
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The European Alliance Against Depression (EAAD) is an international network of experts with the common aim of improving the care of persons suffering from depression and preventing suicidality in Europe. Special emphasis will be placed on children and adolescents due to the increased risk of this vulnerable population.
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The project aims to support the European Commission and the European Member States in the implementation of effective policy to reduce the harm done by alcohol, in line with the Council Conclusions of 5 June 2001 on a Community strategy to reduce alcohol-related harm, the Council Recommendation of 5th June 2001 on the drinking of alcohol by young people, reiterated by the Council Conclusions on alcohol and young people of 2nd June 2004. The Pathways for Health Project will aim to provide for each of the three topic areas, drink driving, binge drinking and health warnings and labelling a 15-20 page review of the evidence for effectiveness or public health importance; a data base and inventory of examples of innovative and best practice and experience, including relevant laws and regulations throughout the countries of Europe; and a 3-5 page summary of practical recommendations as to what could be done at European and Member State level.
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