The resilience of individuals is closely connected to the strength of society. This crucial message was a central theme at the Mental Health Forum, which commenced on November 26 in Kyiv. Over three days, experts, officials, community representatives, and international partners shared insights on how to build a modern and effective mental health support system in Ukraine.

The Odesa region actively participated in this dialogue by contributing to the nationwide mental health program «How are you?» initiated by the First Lady, Olena Zelenska.

Representatives from our region at the forum included:

• – Dmytro Radulov, Deputy Head of the Odesa Regional State Administration,
• – Anna Velichko, Regional Coordinator for the «How are you?» program in Odesa,
• – Margarita Bespalko, Consultant in the Dobroslav Community,
• – Valentina Vitos, Director of the Odesa Regional Center for Ukrainian Culture.

During the forum's opening, Olena Zelenska emphasized: «Thank you to everyone who in various sectors, under different conditions, with diverse experiences works toward a common goal – wrapping Ukrainians in care and providing them with moral support. Unfortunately, we cannot heal all wounds. But we can give everyone who is hurting a sense of support, understanding, and compassion».

Ukraine is learning from international experience while simultaneously creating a unique system that meets the challenges of our time.

A particular pride of Odesa is the award received by the Odesa Regional Center for Ukrainian Culture for its active participation in the «How are you?» program.

The forum also showcased a range of services the state offers to support mental health and discussed new legislative initiatives in this area.

The forum was organized with the support of WHO, the Coordination Center of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine / Mental Health UA, as well as partners from the Netherlands, Canada, and France. Ukraine is confidently moving towards creating a system that cares for everyone.

What do you think are other tools that could strengthen the mental health of Ukrainians? Share your thoughts!