Initiatives for Enhancing Mental Health in Ukraine
The Southern Ukrainian National Pedagogical University named after K.D. Ushynsky hosted an event titled “Supporting Mental Well-Being. Symbols of Support.” This initiative is part of the nationwide mental health program “How Are You?” initiated by the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska.
The main goal of the event was to increase awareness about the importance of mental well-being and create a platform for discussion and experience sharing.
More than 40 participants attended the event in person, and over 100 joined online. Among them were students, psychologists, educators, and community activists.
Welcoming remarks were delivered by the Deputy Head of the Odesa Regional State Administration, Dmytro Radulov, the university rector, Andrii Krasnozhon, and the regional coordinator of the “How Are You?” program, Anna Velychko. They emphasized the importance of consolidating efforts in the field of mental health and the special role of youth in building psychological resilience in society.
The program included a thematic quiz, interactive activities, and practical tools for supporting mental well-being.
The event was moderated by the head of the Mental Health Center, Andrii Bortov, who presented current statistical data on appeals to mental health specialists.
At the end of the event, participants engaged in a gratitude practice, creating a symbolic “Tree of Gratitude” with personal wishes and words of support.
This event confirmed the growing interest in mental health topics and the importance of continuing such initiatives in the region.
The development and implementation of the nationwide mental health program “How Are You?” is supported by the Coordination Center of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine with expert support from the World Health Organization.
