Polish regions expand mental health support for youth

Regional authorities in Poland are launching new initiatives to enhance mental and physical health support for children and adolescents.

In the Łódź Voivodeship, the ‘Zdrowy Start’ (Healthy Start) program has been initiated by the Marshal's Office. The program offers 100 individual psychological consultations and 100 dietary consultations for youth aged 10 to 18. It also includes ten group sessions—five led by psychologists and five by dietitians—to promote healthy lifestyles and emotional management. Organizations have until September 2 to submit offers for the project's implementation.

In Lower Silesia, 800,000 PLN has been allocated to strengthen psychological assistance systems. The initiative focuses on prevention, education, and early intervention through Child Assistance Centers. These centers will provide free, interdisciplinary support to individuals under 18, as well as their parents and caregivers, particularly for those in mental crisis or experiencing violence. The program will cover four subregions: Wrocław, Legnica, Jelenia Góra, and Wałbrzych. This effort complements ongoing infrastructure projects, such as the construction of a Mental Health Center for Children and Youth.