For 31 years, October 10 has been dedicated to mental health issues. According to official sources, the World Health Organization thus has focused on raising awareness of mental health issues and mobilizing efforts to support and improve it. In Uzhhorod, important discussions and a broad information campaign were held on this occasion. In general, the country has the All-Ukrainian Mental Health Program "HowAreU?", which aims to make mental health care a daily habit for Ukrainians.

"In our activities, we often address the issue of mental health and at the same time pay attention to how this aspect is perceived by society, the state, professionals and those who try to be them. Unfortunately, we have also recorded a situation where people without proper training and experience found themselves in such a sensitive area, which created chaos where there should have been absolute order and the most responsible attitude. Working with representatives of various segments of the population, we unwittingly gain important experience in diagnosing certain problems, because mental health has always been and is the focus of our organization", said Nataliya Kabatsiy, director of the Medical Aid Committee in Zakarpattya, during a meeting at the Zakarpattia Regional Military Administration.

She also added that she considers the deepening of cooperation between representatives of the non-governmental sector to be a positive development and hopes that the state will be included in the sectoral discussions.

"We can be self-sufficient in implementing our own projects. However, if we position ourselves as active members of civil society seeking positive change, then cooperation with government agencies is necessary, no matter how difficult it may be. We need to strengthen intersectoral cooperation, intensify the educational component, and talk about pressing issues in a timely manner, preventing them from becoming problems. The public sector should in no way replace the state, but should help it change, because each of us will ultimately benefit from this by receiving a particular service", summarized Nataliya Kabatsiy.

It is only now that society is moving away from stereotypes and prejudices about mental health, and everyone is beginning to realize the urgent need to pay attention to it, not to be indifferent to the experiences of others. It is equally important to entrust this sensitive component of human well-being to professionals who are able to diagnose our conditions and do their best to help without harm.

"Mental health is a state of emotional, psychological and social well-being in which a person can function effectively, cope with stress, interact with others and feel good about themselves. When something is wrong with mental health, there are a number of signs and symptoms that can indicate problems. These include changes in mood, social isolation, poor performance at work or school, physical symptoms, and self-destructive behavior... If you experience any of these symptoms and they continue over a long period of time, it is important to see a mental health professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help you improve your mental health and quality of life", says Tetyana Hoydash, a member of the CO "CF "CAMZ", a doctor.

The doctor emphasizes that ignoring mental health problems can lead to serious consequences and worsen the quality of life. In particular, it threatens to increase anxiety, depression, panic attacks, phobias and other disorders, suicidal thoughts, deterioration of physical condition, loss of work productivity, etc.

Psychosocial accompaniment is always present in all activities of the Medical Aid Committee in Zakarpattya, which involve support for various groups of citizens. We realize that such support is often more important than the humanitarian component. You can have a roof over your head, the necessary minimum for a comfortable life, but not have peace of mind, and therefore – not have the opportunity to move on, work, strive, create, dream. We believe that the joint efforts of the professional community and responsible government policy will allow us to respond effectively to the challenges of such a difficult and traumatic time. Take care of yourself and take care of not only your physical but also your mental health!