Dear Colleagues and Friends,
Together with our member society, the Swedish Psychiatric Association, the World Psychiatric Association (WPA) is delighted to invite you to the 26th WPA World Congress of Psychiatry, taking place in the stunning city of Stockholm, Sweden, from 23–26 September 2026.
Our theme for this congress – “Guided by Compassion, Grounded in Science: Psychiatry for Our Time” – speaks to the heart of modern psychiatric practice. In a world marked by rapid change, complex crises, and evolving expectations of care, psychiatry must be both scientifically robust and deeply human. This Congress will explore how we, as mental health professionals, can respond with empathy, uphold ethical standards, and innovate responsibly to meet the needs of our time.
Set against the backdrop of Stockholm’s forward-thinking spirit and natural beauty, WCP 2026 will offer a powerful platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and inspiration. The WPA 2023–2026 Action Plan will continue to guide our efforts as we advance critical priorities in research, prevention, education, and global cooperation.
Our scientific programme will once again feature the popular Specialist Corner, where leading experts will engage in focused discussions on key topics including psychotic disorders, affective disorders, trauma, substance use, neurodevelopmental conditions, and digital mental health.
The promotion of healthy lifestyles remains central to our agenda, with a continued emphasis on physical activity, sleep, nutrition, and holistic well-being. Our focus on young people will be especially strong, as we address the mental health challenges faced by adolescents in an increasingly digital and demanding world.
Our research initiatives will expand, examining the real-world impact of lifestyle interventions and pursuing international collaborations on pressing concerns like suicide prevention and emergency mental health response.
Importantly, collaboration remains at the core of our mission. Through the WPA’s Advisory Committee on Response to Emergencies (ACRE) and partnerships with psychiatric associations and mental health stakeholders around the globe, we will continue working toward a healthier, more resilient future.
We invite you to join us in Stockholm for what promises to be a transformative experience – one where science meets compassion, ideas spark action, and lasting connections are made.
We look forward to welcoming you in September 2026!
Warm regards,
Professor Danuta Wasserman
President, World Psychiatric Association
