SOCIAL CAMPAIGNS FOR MENTAL HEALTH CARE. WHY ARE WE TALKING ABOUT IT LOUDER TODAY?

Contemporary societies – including Poland – are increasingly facing epidemic levels of mental health crises. Research shows that nearly one in four people experience mental health disorders during their lifetime. For many, however, talking about their emotional state or seeking help from a psychologist or psychiatrist remains a shameful topic. Stigmatization – both from society and self-stigmatization – blocks early intervention and condemns those in crisis to suffer in silence. That is why it is so important to strip this topic of taboo and step forward with a clear, supportive voice for those facing emotional crises.

Barriers to speaking openly about mental health are especially visible in smaller towns, where social pressure, fear of judgment, or gossip exclude open conversations about mental health problems. As a result, untreated symptoms worsen, and neglected anxiety disorders or depressive episodes tend to become chronic and reduce the effectiveness of later treatment. It is vital to recognize that this is a serious social threat requiring immediate action.

Suicide statistics in Poland remain shocking. According to the latest data, on average 15 people take their own lives every day, of whom 12 are men. A prominent voice in this matter is Joanna Przetakiewicz, who launched a campaign addressing male loneliness. This campaign, conducted in cooperation with SEC Newgate, emphasizes the enormous scale of mental health crises within this group – both in Poland and globally.

The Coalition Against Loneliness was announced on June 11, 2024. To the surprise of the guests invited to the event, it was not a fashion show but a performance in which twelve men, one after another, fell into an abyss symbolizing suicide. The dramatic message of the event drew attention to the statistics captured in the numbers: 12/15.

Przetakiewicz’s campaign demonstrated how important are partnered projects focused on male suicide prevention and how much modern, empathetic communication is needed to save lives and build a healthy, supportive society.

A key role in breaking taboos and improving access to help is played by social campaigns that are increasingly conducted where Poles spend their daily lives – in shopping malls, office buildings, schools, and city streets.

Another example is the #ZadbajOMental campaign by the eFkropka Foundation, which is present in 25 shopping centers and 6 office buildings across 21 cities. It sets a new standard in communication for mental wellbeing. The campaign’s creators emphasize that mental health does not begin at the moment of crisis but is a process of daily mindfulness toward one’s own emotions and those of others. The campaign is based on a simple and understandable 4xP scheme: “Look – Think – Ask – Take action,” promoting mindfulness, reflection, conversation, and active assistance.

As part of the campaign, the Foundation also launched a telephone support line staffed by psychologists (phone number 731 232 083) who offer crisis interventions and indicate where further help can be obtained. The campaign will culminate with a finale at the Galeria Młociny at the end of August, featuring discussions, lectures, and open events about mental health.

Other examples of mental wellbeing campaign activities include “Life Worth Talking About,” which educates about suicide and supports both people in crisis and their loved ones.

Regarding the youngest, who also face mental health challenges, the Give Children Strength Foundation runs initiatives aimed at children and teenagers – “Please Help Me” – teaching how to recognize crisis signals, seek support, and not be afraid to ask about emotions.

Another campaign fighting the taboo around mental health is “Sensitive to Words. Sensitive to People,” which highlights the importance of empathy and mindfulness in interpersonal relations and encourages intervention when noticing worrying signs among friends, family, or coworkers.

Equally important is talking about the harm done to children and ensuring they have a happy childhood. The slogan for this year’s edition of the campaign by the “Dajemy Dzieciom Siłę” (We Give Children Strength) organization is: “A good childhood gives a child power” (or “A good childhood empowers a child”). The organizers point out that a close and supportive relationship with adults is the foundation for building mental resilience and self-esteem. However, research conducted by Ipsos in cooperation with the “Fundacja Kosmos dla Dziewczynek” (The Cosmos for Girls Foundation) showed that as many as one third of parents do not consider building bonds and showing unconditional love a priority in raising children, and only 29% prioritize appreciation over the use of punishment. Therefore, this year’s campaign encourages adults to reflect on the importance of support and presence in the lives of the youngest.

Talking openly about mental health is so important today because open debate, education, and publicly breaking stereotypes not only encourage early help-seeking but also greatly increase the chances of effective prevention and treatment.

Social campaigns familiarize people with the topic, show that crises can affect anyone, and that asking for support is not shameful. In a dynamic, troubling world, caring for mental wellbeing has become one of the most important civilizational challenges – and every effort to build openness, understanding, and accessibility of help is a step toward a healthier, safer society where no one has to be alone in difficult moments. Social campaigns break the silence, bring support closer to people, and demonstrate that talking about mental health can and should be a part of our daily lives, without taboo.