A milestone for Vienna: The founding of pro mente
On December 2, 1965, a decisive step was taken at Vienna City Hall for psychosocial care in the federal capital. The renowned psychiatrist Raoul Schindler founded the non-profit association pro mente Wien. Since that day, the organization has worked tirelessly for mental health and social inclusion. But what exactly is behind this success story that has now lasted 60 years?
The beginnings: A vision becomes reality
In the 1960s, awareness of mental health was nowhere near as developed as it is today. Mental illnesses were often stigmatized and affected people isolated. Raoul Schindler, himself a pioneer in psychiatry, recognized the urgent need for support and founded pro mente Wien to give these people a voice and a point of contact.
"It was a time when mental health was hardly taken seriously. We set out to change that," said Dr. Raoul Schindler in a fictional interview from the early days of the founding.
A look at development: Growth and change
Today, 60 years later, pro mente Wien has developed into one of the most important organizations for psychosocial support in Austria. With around 350 employees and over 150 committed volunteers, the organization cares for more than 2,000 clients annually at 16 locations in Vienna.
- Housing options:Pro mente offers various housing options for people with mental illnesses to provide them with a safe and supportive environment.
- Work and leisure programs:Through targeted programs, clients are supported in leading a self-determined life and strengthening their social skills.
- Self-help and specialized support:Especially for children and adolescents on the autism spectrum, there are specialized services that address their individual needs.
"For 60 years we have been committed to ensuring that no one has to face a mental health crisis alone. We open doors, provide support, and fight for everyone to be able to lead a self-determined life," emphasizes Dr. Hemma Swoboda, Chairwoman of pro mente Wien.
The pro mente Academy: Education as a key
Another central component of pro mente's work is the pro mente Academy. It offers basic, advanced and continuing education in the psychosocial and social-psychiatric fields. The focus is on prevention, support and vocational qualification. Especially at a time when mental illnesses are being diagnosed more frequently, the training of professionals is essential.
Political support and partnerships
The work of pro mente Wien is supported not only by its staff but also by a variety of funders and partners. These include Fonds Soziales Wien, Arbeitsmarktservice Wien and Sozialministeriumservice. The Ministry of Education as well as the municipal departments MA 10 and MA 11 also play an important role.
"The challenges in the field of mental health have become visibly greater in recent years. All the more important is our mission: care that arrives, works and is carried out on an equal footing. For that we thank not only our funders but also our partners," adds Dr. Rudolf P. Wagner, Managing Director of pro mente Wien.
Societal change: From taboo to acceptance
In recent decades, societal understanding of mental illnesses has changed significantly. What was once a taboo topic is now discussed more openly. Pro mente Wien has played a decisive role in raising the importance of mental health in society.
"This anniversary belongs to all of us: staff, clients, funders and partners. Because only together can we shape a future in which humanity, participation and solidarity matter," says Mag.a Tamara Weichselberger, Deputy Managing Director of pro mente Wien.
Looking to the future: Visions for the coming decades
Even after 60 years, pro mente Wien's vision remains current: a society in which people with mental illnesses receive not only support but above all acceptance and opportunities. "Together for mental health" is not just the organization's slogan but its motivation and responsibility.
"Even though times are challenging: we stay — with courage, with new ideas and with the firm conviction that mental health must have the highest priority in our society," says Dr. Hemma Swoboda.
The coming years will show how the organization will continue to develop to meet the growing challenges. But one thing is certain: pro mente Wien will continue to play a central role in promoting mental health in Austria.
