World Vision joins 15 NGOs to amplify nationwide mental health awareness campaign in Moldova

World Vision, supported by Aktion Deutschland Hilft (ADH), joined other 15 local and international humanitarian organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), to raise awareness of mental health issues during the event held in Chisinau, Moldova.

From 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Ukrainian refugees and Moldovan families benefitted from mental health information services, interactive games for children, art therapy, group counseling sessions, recreational activities, music, and healthy snacks and beverages.

“Nearly one billion people in the world live with a mental disorder. Do not ignore mental health issues,” said Ala Nemerenco, Minister of Health, during the opening of the event, which was organized in close collaboration with local authorities.

“In the Republic of Moldova, community mental health services are developed in 40 community mental health centres that operate in all districts and municipalities, in addition to the services available at three psychiatric hospitals in Chisinau, Balti, and Orhei,” she went on.

These centres offer both medical assistance and psychosocial rehabilitation, support and mediation in family and community relations.

According to the Minister of Health, in Moldova, the incidence of mental illness was estimated to be around 78,000 individuals in 2022, with around 10,000 children accounting for 12% of the total.

“We should not forget that we have been through a pandemic, and this has created a global mental health crisis, fuelling short- and long-term stress,” shared Nemerenco.

She stated that the number of anxiety and depressive disorders increased by 25% in the first year of the pandemic. “Now the global population health crisis is compounded by the effects of war, displacement in Ukraine, and the refugee crisis.”

Being aware of issues creates a more empathetic and supportive environment for those facing mental health challenges and encourage them to speak out.

World Vision assists both Ukrainian and Moldovan families through the ADH-funded project, boosting protection and mental health and psychosocial support services (MHPSS) across the country.

The Child Rights Information Center (CRIC) and WeWorld, World Vision’s local partners in Moldova, provide monthly training sessions for educational professionals on topics such as bullying, refugee integration into local education, and psychological first aid.

“These training courses aim to create a safer and more supportive environment, crucial for mental health,” said Natalia Cucu, World Vision’s project coordinator.

She added, “Being aware of issues creates a more empathetic and supportive environment for those facing mental health challenges and encourage them to speak out.”

Miljana Grbic, WHO representative in Moldova, emphasized at the ceremony’s opening that every individual with a mental health issue should be allowed to participate in mental health decision making.

“Our minds are our rights. No person should experience discrimination when they seek mental health services,” she continued.

As stated by Andrei Eșanu, one of the leaders of the MHSS working group in Moldova, of which World Vision is a member, more than 50% of people with mental health problems do not address the issue and avoid seeing a mental health professional because of stigma.

“There are many people who suffer from anxiety and depression, and other problems, but are afraid to see a specialist,” shared Eșanu.

During the event, dozens of children and parents learned about World Vision’s mental health programs in Moldova and participated in art therapy activities.

“Fostering your child’s mental health is the greatest gift you can give. In today’s world, working on resilience, inner strength and emotional well-being is a must,” said Dumitru, father of five-year-old Roberta, who stopped by World Vision’s table for an art session.

“Just as we nourish their bodies, we must nourish their minds,” added Dumitru.

To date, World Vision Ukraine Crisis Response has reached more than 84,600 people who have benefitted from mental health and psychosocial activities in Ukraine, and the hosting countries of Romania, Moldova, and Georgia.

Read more on World Vision's Mental Health and Psychosocial Services (MHPSS) in Moldova here. 

Story and photos by Laurentia Jora, Romania and Moldova Communications Coordinator