Poland expands mental health and crisis support initiatives

Mental health and crisis support services in Poland are being highlighted through new initiatives and ongoing support programs.

The Wounded in the Church Initiative is marking its 400th helpline shift. Since its launch in 2019, the free and anonymous helpline has handled over 760 calls from individuals affected by violence, primarily sexual abuse, within the Church. Spokesperson Katarzyna Sroczyńska noted that while initial expectations suggested a shorter lifespan for the service, the nature of calls has evolved to include more reports of power abuse and psychological violence, as well as follow-ups on cases already reported to state and ecclesiastical authorities.

Simultaneously, the Ministry of Digital Affairs has launched a national campaign titled ‘What you feel is important’ to promote the 116 123 helpline and the 116sos.pl platform. Running through November 2026, the campaign aims to combat social stigmas—such as the pressure to ‘pull oneself together’—that prevent adults in psychological crisis from seeking help. The initiative is a collaboration between the Ministry, NASK, and the Blue Line Institute of Health Psychology, utilizing digital tools to make mental health support more accessible.