8.Q. Scientific session: Mental Health Outcomes of Injuries: Research and Practice Challenges

Abstract Injuries, whether unintentional, self-inflicted, or violence-related, represent a leading cause of disability and death globally. Beyond the physical trauma, a significant yet often under-recognized burden stems from the mental health consequences of injuries, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal behavior. These effects can persist for months or years, deeply impacting survivors’ quality of life, social functioning, and long-term recovery. Despite the growing evidence, mental health is rarely integrated into injury response frameworks, clinical care protocols, or rehabilitation programs. This poses a substantial challenge for public health, as untreated psychological outcomes can lead to chronic disability and increased health care utilization. This workshop aims to address the mental health impact of injuries across diverse populations by exploring current limitations in research, identifying barriers to integrating mental health care into injury management, and sharing emerging methodologies and models that address both the physical and psychological aftermath of trauma. It further seeks to foster interdisciplinary dialogue around collaborative solutions and system-level change, highlighting the need for improved surveillance, clinical training, and follow-up care. The workshop will further discuss real-world challenges in research and practice, including methodological constraints, fragmented data, ethical concerns, and the absence of mental health indicators in many injury surveillance systems. The conversation will also examine clinical gaps such as low screening rates and insufficient pathways for psychological care, and systemic barriers that limit access to long-term support, particularly in low-resource settings. This workshop is especially relevant for public health professionals, policymakers, and frontline providers, as it confronts a key yet often neglected determinant of population health. By strengthening our understanding of the mental health impact of injuries, we can enhance prevention, promote more responsive care systems, and reduce the long-term societal and economic burden of trauma. Key messages • Earlier identification of at-risk individuals and timely interventions are necessary for healthier communities where injury survivors can recover with dignity, support, and resilience. • Stronger public health surveillance systems, evidence-based tools and collaborative strategies can contribute to more equitable, integrated and effective public health responses.