Parliamentary health committee addresses concerns over Athalassa psychiatric hospital conditions

During a session of the House Health Committee on September 10, 2026, severe concerns were raised regarding the conditions at the Athalassa psychiatric hospital. The Cyprus Confederation of Organizations of the Disabled (KYSYOA) reported that a child with autism is currently being held at the facility, where they are subjected to excessive noise and lighting that exacerbate their neurosensory distress. Reports indicate that the child often covers their ears and hides under a blanket due to the environment. Furthermore, it was disclosed that seven individuals diagnosed with autism, including two minors, are currently institutionalized at the hospital, alongside patients with eating disorders and homeless individuals.

Committee chairwoman Savia Orphanidou acknowledged the facility's overcrowding and understaffing, noting that many current inpatients do not require psychiatric hospitalization but lack community-based alternatives. The committee discussed the urgent need for a comprehensive mental health system, including earlier intervention and community care. Orphanidou stated that she expects proposed legislative amendments concerning psychiatric hospitalization decrees and the development of alternative structures to be prepared by the end of the year to address these long-standing systemic issues.