On 9 October 2023, the Abovyan penitentiary institution in Armenia hosted an awareness-raising session to mark World Mental Health Day, drawing attention to the significance of mental well-being within the prison system. This event marked a step towards acknowledging challenges to and supporting mental health in the context of incarceration while educating and supporting both staff and inmates. The attending Deputy Minister of Health underscored the government's commitment to raising mental health awareness in the criminal justice system.

A pivotal aspect of the event was the presentation of the manual “Specialized Skills and Knowledge for Psychologists and Psychiatrists Working in Penitentiary Institutions”. Developed by Council of Europe consultants, this manual provides essential guidance to mental health professionals, empowering them to effectively address the unique mental health challenges present in such environments and enhance the quality of care provided.

A part of the event was dedicated to providing detainees with vital guidance on looking after their own mental health while in prison. This guidance helped equip them with practical strategies and skills to cope with the challenges of incarceration, promoting resilience, self-awareness, and mental strength while contributing to a healthier and more positive penitentiary environment.

This event is part of the Council of Europe’s support within the framework of the Project “Strengthening the protection of the rights of persons in detention” that assists the national authorities to further enhance penitentiary reform, prison health care and the protection of human rights of persons deprived of liberty. The Project is financed within the framework of the Council of Europe Action Plan for Armenia 2023-2026 and implemented by the Council of Europe.