As World Mental Health Day approaches on October 10, Austria confronts a significant mental health challenge.

Between 1.3 to 1.8 million Austrians suffer from mental illnesses, with depression affecting up to 900,000 individuals.

Alarmingly, half of those with depression struggle to overcome their crisis.

Last year, 1,212 Austrians died by suicide, a figure three times higher than road traffic fatalities.

While Vienna and Burgenland report the lowest suicide rates, regions like Carinthia and Styria face higher averages.

This situation underscores the urgent need for open discussions and support for mental health, as emphasized by psychiatrist Gerhard Miksch.

The increasing openness about mental health issues, even among public figures, highlights a growing awareness and the importance of addressing these challenges.