Nikolay Neznanov

George Kostyuk

Dear colleagues!

I would like to invite you to take part in the international conference “Centenary of community based psychiatry: landmarks and perspectives” that will be held 16.05.2019 – 18.05.2019 in Moscow.

According to WHO European Mental Health Action Plan (2013 – 2020), all countries in the European region have committed their strategies towards supporting the shift from institutional psychiatry to community-based mental health care. Many countries have developed a network of local, community-based mental health services, which serve the specific needs of their respective population sector. The role of community-based psychiatry is prevention, treatment and psychosocial rehabilitation of people with mental health problems. However, the process of developing community- based mental health care is challenging, therefore, the exchange of ideas and experiences might be helpful in achieving these goals.

Russian psychiatry developed simultaneously in both institutional and community-based directions. The first community-based mental health services in Moscow were organized in 1919. In 2019, we will commemorate the centenary of community-based psychiatry. The conference can serve as a ground for sharing experiences and for finding solutions towards achieving our goal of improving care for our patients.

Looking forward to seeing you in Moscow!

    Professor George Kostyuk

Chief Psychiatrist of Moscow Health Department