Data-Driven Mental Health Prevention

The project focuses on primary and secondary prevention of mental disorders in the city of Münster, with mental health understood in a broad, population-based sense. It addresses mental disorders as a growing public health challenge and complements existing care structures with preventive approaches.

At its core is a data-informed analysis of social, environmental, and health-related factors influencing mental health at neighborhood level. By identifying local risk and protective factors, the project aims to support early detection of vulnerable groups and the development of targeted prevention strategies. Where appropriate, secondary prevention approaches may include health-related indicators, subject to ethical and data protection requirements.

The project clearly distinguishes prevention from treatment and does not aim to replace psychotherapy or medical care with digital or AI-based solutions. Instead, it seeks to strengthen prevention, early intervention, and evidence-based planning through collaboration between municipal authorities, health care providers, research institutions, and health insurers. Münster serves as a pilot region, with the potential to transfer results to other regions.