Mental health is a universal human right

Discrimination, stereotypes, and social stigmatization due to mental illnesses are the themes of this year's World Mental Health Day celebrations. For over three decades, on October 10, the World Federation for Mental Health has raised awareness of the importance of taking care of one's mental health.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), together with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, including the Polish Red Cross, is also engaged in educating about mental health and supporting individuals who need psychosocial assistance.

Mental health is crucial for our overall health and well-being. One in eight people worldwide lives with mental disorders that affect their physical health, well-being, relationships with others, and sources of livelihood. According to the World Federation for Mental Health, mental disorders will be one of the main health problems affecting humanity in the coming years. With the advancement of civilization, more and more people are developing mental illnesses. The World Health Organization estimates that currently, the number of people affected by mental health disorders is nearly 1 billion. In Poland, this issue concerns 26% of our society. This means that there is no family that has not faced a mental health crisis.

Currently, depression ranks as the fourth most common disease in the world, and it is predicted that by the end of this decade, it will take the first place. A concerning trend is the growing issue of mental health problems among young people. The causes are attributed to daily stress, a fast-paced lifestyle, lack of time for oneself and others, and insufficient time for rest and retreat from excessive stimuli.

During this year's World Mental Health Day celebrations, IFRC focuses on counteracting the stigmatization of people with mental illnesses. The labeling of the sick often stems from a lack of understanding or fear. It is important to break the silence in order to promote change, eliminate shame, and enable people to seek help from friends, family, and above all, professionals. Downplaying the importance of mental health affects not only the well-being of the sick person but also their social relationships, education, employment opportunities, and access to healthcare. The Red Cross calls for open discussions about mental health and not stigmatizing people with mental illnesses.

In 2022, the Polish Red Cross joined the Europeanprogram #EU4Health,through which it provides mental health services and psychosocial support for individuals affected by armed conflict in Ukraine. For the needs of the program, PCK launched a special PCK HELPLINE in January this year, where refugees can receive psychosocial support from professionals who help them with daily difficulties in adapting to life in Poland. Many refugees who arrived in Poland thought they would be here for only a few weeks, at most a few months, but most of them have been living here for over a year. They feel lost, uncertain about their immediate future, and are therefore seeking support.

The mental health and well-being of volunteers and employees of the Red Cross and Red Crescent is one of the top priorities for IFRC. They are also at high risk of experiencing mental health problems due to burnout and stigmatization. Therefore, among other things, the Polish Red Cross conducts a range of training for its employees and volunteers regarding emotional support, so they are well-prepared to overcome the challenges arising from their activities.

Anyone who has suffered due to the armed conflict in Ukraine can receive psychosocial support on the PCK HELPLINE. The helpline is open from Monday to Friday during the hours
from 09:00 to 17:00.

PCK HELPLINE +48 800 088 136