Around 7,000 experts from around the world are expected to attend an international psychiatry conference in Yokohama later this month, according to organizers.
The 12th World Congress of Psychiatry at Pacifico Yokohama Hall aims to highlight the efforts of governments, health care operators and patients to fight the stigma and discrimination associated with mental health problems, the World Psychiatric Association said.
The conference, which will run from Saturday through Aug. 29, is being held in Asia for the first time. Nearly 10,000 people, including psychiatric experts from about 120 nations and territories, along with patients and relatives, are expected to take part, the WPA said.
Under the theme "Partnership for Mental Health," the congress will also feature several workshops and other events, such as a citizens' forum aimed at dealing with discrimination leveled against mentally disabled people, the WPA said. Participants are expected to issue a statement urging the promotion of mental health welfare.
Among the key issues likely to feature in oral presentations at the conference are the prevention of mental illnesses and the early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, the WPA said.
Jiro Suzuki, chairman of the organizing committee, said the conference constitutes an important opportunity to eradicate prejudice and promote medical treatment of mental illnesses.
The conference has been held once every three to seven years since 1950.