21 November 2025
The election of the new governing bodies of the Portuguese Society of Psychiatry and Mental Health (SPPSM) took place on November 21 at the 2025 Portuguese Congress of Psychiatry, in the Algarve. The event brought together clinicians, researchers, and representatives from across the mental health sector, marking the beginning of a new cycle for the society.
Albino Oliveira-Maia, psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and Director of the Neuropsychiatry Unit at the Champalimaud Foundation, has been elected to serve as President-Elect for the 2026–2029 term. He will subsequently assume the full presidency of the SPPSM from 2029 to 20321. Upon accepting the position, Oliveira-Maia emphasized the importance of advancing scientific progress and ensuring its real-world impact, stating: “Through leadership of this Society I hope to continue and expand on the work needed to make science and innovation accessible to those that most need it.”
The Portuguese Society for Psychiatry and Mental Health is the principal scientific association representing psychiatrists and other mental health professionals in Portugal. It brings together experts from diverse specialties and research fields, aiming to promote excellence in clinical practice, foster scientific exchange, and advocate for better mental health policies. Every three years, the society elects a President, who first serves a three-year term as President-Elect, contributing to strategic planning and international representation, before assuming the presidency for the following three years.
Reflecting on the mission of the Society, Oliveira-Maia added: “I share with members of the Portuguese Society of Psychiatry and Mental Health a common interest and dedication to the best science on how to recover mental health in those that are suffering from mental disorders.” His statements underscore a commitment to evidence-based care and to strengthening the role of scientific research in improving outcomes for patients.
The board starting in 2026 is composed of Albino Oliveira Maia (President-Elect), Luís Madeira (President), João Bessa (Past President), and three additional elected board members (Beatriz Lourenço, Ana Matos Pires and Miguel Bajouco). The Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer will be nominated in 2026.
