3.Q. Scientific session: Mental health across the life course

Abstract This workshop brings together international experts to present findings on mental health status and psychological well-being across different life stages, populations, and societal contexts. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the workshop aims to enhance understanding of mental health across the life course, foster discussions on key methodological and policy implications, and highlight priorities for equity-oriented mental health research and intervention. Topics include childhood health adversities and mental health in older age (Lee), as well as the impact of parental adverse childhood experiences on childhood development (Lindert). Presentations will also address the interplay between age discrimination and psychological well-being, and how individual factors, including education, income, job experience, and personal relationships, affect various domains of well-being (Chatarajupalli). The final two presentations examine factors related to suicidality and suicide prevention (McManus), and public attitudes toward mental health-related healthcare allocation (Andrén). Based on the presentations, research gaps, promising areas of research, practical strategies and interventions, and policy approaches for promoting mental health across the life course are discussed with the audience. Key messages • Population-based evidence advances our knowledge of the complexities of mental health and well-being across the life course. • Findings highlight the need for integrated healthcare approaches, early interventions, and life-stage-sensitive mental health measures and policies.