On June 12–13, 2025, around 30 leading experts from over 15 countries will convene in Bern to exchange ideas, share progress, and discuss challenges in the field of brain health. This International workshop: National, Regional and International Plans for Brain and Mental Health: Bridging the Gaps, organized by the SFCNS Swiss Brain Health Plan (SBHP), reflects a growing global movement and a clear vision: to strengthen brain health across the lifespan and across all sectors of society.

Switzerland plays a pioneering role in this effort. With the SFCNS Swiss Brain Health Plan, it has become the first country worldwide to launch a truly holistic, intersectoral, and life-course-oriented national brain health strategy. Anchored in the action plans of the World Health Organization (WHO), the SBHP uniquely bridges neurology, psychiatry, mental health, public health, health economics, and patient advocacy.

What makes this initiative stand out? It is coordinated by the Swiss Federation of Clinical Neuro-Societies (SFCNS) - a coalition of over 20 academic and clinical neuroscience societies - and is supported by the Swiss Brain Health Foundation. The SBHP brings together stakeholders from across disciplines and sectors, avoiding siloed debates and fostering strong, united action.

The achievements so far are remarkable:

• The international Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in Brain Health launched with 37 students from 16 countries: https://www.unibe.ch/continuing_education_programs/cas_in_brain_health/index_eng.html

• Collaborative research with the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation IHME on the cost and burden of brain disorders

• Collaborative research with the European Academy of Neurology EAN and the WHO (for example about the burden of sleep disorders)

• Prevention initiatives addressing migraine (migraine friendly workspace and migraine friendly school)

• International prevention campaign #BrainHealthChallenge2025

• The creation of a dynamic alliance of patient and civil society organizations

• Organizing events on brain health with national and international stakeholders

The SBHP has gained growing recognition on the global stage. It has been presented at major forums including the G7, the United Nations, the European Parliament, and the European Investment Bank - where it was highlighted as a networked, impact-driven model with the potential to guide other nations in shaping their own brain health strategies.

Yet, while international awareness grows, national visibility remains a key priority. In Switzerland, brain disorders are the leading cause of disability and generated USD 24 billion in direct health costs in 2019 - more than any other disease group. The need for broad public awareness and political commitment is urgent.

The upcoming workshop in Bern will therefore not only serve as a platform for knowledge sharing, but also as a strong signal: Switzerland is fully committed to advancing brain health - at home and globally. Through science, prevention, advocacy, and innovation, the SFCNS Swiss Brain Health Plan is building a healthier future for brains and people, everywhere.

One brain. One health. One shared responsibility.

Program International workshop : National, Regional and International Plans for Brain and Mental Health: Bridging the Gaps
(This event is by invitation only.)