Cyprus establishes mental health ambassador role

On September 1, 2026, the Cypriot Ministry of Health announced the creation of a new mental health ambassador role to enhance public discourse and social engagement. Minister Neofytos Charalampidis appointed Poly Grigora as the inaugural ambassador for a two-year term.

Grigora, an expert by experience and mental health advocate, has an extensive background in the sector and contributed to the National Mental Health Strategy 2025-2028. The initiative aims to prioritize mental health as a core component of overall quality of life, focusing on early intervention, public awareness, and the eradication of social stigma and discrimination. The Ministry stated that this position will ensure that the voices and lived experiences of individuals are integrated into government policy, fostering an environment where mental health can be discussed openly and without fear.

This development is part of a broader government commitment to psychiatric care reform and the implementation of the ongoing 2025-2028 National Strategy. By empowering representatives with lived experience, the state aims to bridge the gap between policy makers and the public, ensuring that future health strategies are better informed by real-world personal challenges.