The specialists from the Second Psychiatric Clinic at UMHAT "St. Marina"–Varna marked the World Mental Health Day with initiatives targeted at the citizens.
More than 160 people participated in screening and consultations for depression and anxiety, conducted by the specialists in collaboration with students from the Association of Medical Students in Bulgaria (AMSB) at MU–Varna. The initiative took place at the entrance to the Sea Garden. The citizens had the opportunity to have their current mental health status assessed and to receive consultations and guidance from psychiatrists, clinical psychologists and nurses on improving their mental health. “The initiative demonstrated that more and more people are interested in their mental health and are no longer ashamed to acknowledge it. However, there is still considerable work to be done to overcome the stigma in society, which remains a barrier preventing Bulgarians from seeking timely help at the very first symptoms," explained Prof. Dr. Hristo Kozhuharov, Head of the Psychiatry Department at UMHAT "St. Marina" – Varna.
Another initiative focused on patients living with schizophrenia. An information session entitled “Speaking Openly About Schizophrenia" was held at the Day Centre of the Second Psychiatric Clinic, which was aimed at patients with the condition and their families.
Psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, psychiatric nurses and an occupational therapist provide comprehensive daily care and support to patients with various mental health conditions from North-East Bulgaria at the Day Centre of UMHAT "St. Marina" – Varna.
Watch the video about the Day Centre here.
