October 10th is an international day to raise awareness of mental health issues. Not only is it a day dedicated to these actions, but it is also a time for people to pay special attention to their and others’ mental health. The theme for this year, „Mental health is a universal human right”, serves as a reminder that mental well-being is a fundamental entitlement for everyone.
Organized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Federation for Mental Health, World Mental Health Day focuses on spreading awareness about mental health education. Moreover, this day also tries to break down the stigma concerning the unfair and harmful labelling of individuals and social groups.
Mental health is a universal human right
Everyone has the right to access free psychological or psychiatric assistance. Such specialists may help one understand their problems and find ways to solve them. Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń offers both Polish and English-speaking students and university staff free psychological and psychiatric support.
In Toruń, you can seek such help on: Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Collegium Humanisticum, Bojarskiego 1, room C 2.10, or at Św. Józefa 17 / On Fridays from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM at Św. Józefa 17.
For those in Bydgoszcz, every Monday from 3PM to 8PM is the time for consultations. You can find further details and the scheduling information here.
Additionally, free psychiatric consultations are available on the first and third Thursday of each month, starting at 2PM at the “Łaźnia Miejska” Health Center in Bydgoszcz (at ks. I. Skorupki 2.). To register for an appointment, call 500 305 485, and use the password „student” or „NCU staff”.
How can we take care of our mental health?
Getting proper rest, eating a balanced diet, and exercising are ways may help us care about our mental health. Moreover, it is advised to limit the use of social media, try to manage stressful situations well, and avoid addictive substances. Surrounding yourself with supportive people who genuinely care about your well-being is also significant in improving your mental condition.
Phone numbers worth remembering
In Poland, there are several 24/7 psychological helplines available, for example:
800 800 605 – „Pomagamy”, a helpline for children, youth, parents, and teachers.
116 111 – helpline for emotional support.
800 12 00 02 – „Niebieska Linia”, a helpline for victims of domestic violence.
116 123 – helpline for emotional crisis support for adults, available for free from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Polish version of the article here.
Written by Dominika Czaja and Julia Zaborowska.