World Mental Health Day awareness initiatives

Various regional initiatives have been organized to observe World Mental Health Day. In Varna, specialists from St. Marina University Hospital and the Medical University of Varna scheduled free, anonymous screenings and consultations for depression and anxiety at the Sea Garden. The initiative, involving experts such as Professor Hristo Kozhuharov, aims to combat social stigma.

In Serbia, the Dr. Lazar Lazarević Psychiatric Clinic is organizing a mental health screening event at Republic Square in Belgrade to promote early recognition and combat social stigma. Related activities include interactive forums and performances addressing anxiety, depression, and psychosocial rehabilitation.

In Bulgaria, Dr. Severina Vasileva, manager of the Dr. Petar Stanchev Mental Health Center in Dobrich, highlighted systemic challenges including staffing shortages and insufficient funding. She noted that current funding for inpatient psychiatric care is approximately 47.04 euros per bed, while at least 67 euros are required for quality care.

In Greece, multiple organizations are holding events to promote mental well-being. In Volos, the Panhellenic Federation of Mental Health Associations (POSOPSY) and the Association of Families, Caregivers and Friends (SOPSY) of Magnesia organized a two-day event at the city beach. In Athens, the Argo Federation of Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Mental Health and the Municipality of Athens are co-organizing the ‘Mental Health Has a Voice’ festival at Klathmonos Square.

Additional Greek regional efforts include an open dialogue in Lamia’s Karavi Square featuring workshops on dementia care and overcoming dependencies. In Zakharos, the Zakharos Community Center conducted workshops at Kakovatos Primary School focused on emotional expression, while the ‘Thalpos’ Mental Health Center and the Hellenic Scout Movement organized nature-based activities in Nea Makri to highlight environmental therapeutic benefits. The Municipality of Poligyrvos also hosted ‘Unrolling the Thread of Mental Health’ for students.