Moldova targets high teen pregnancy and suicide risk in youth training
Over 80 psychologists and national volunteer coordinators (VNET) from education services across the Republic of Moldova attended a two-day workshop focused on critical challenges facing the nation's youth: preventing Teen Pregnancy in Moldova and managing Suicide Risk Prevention among adolescents.
The statistics reveal the urgency of the situation. Annually, over 1,200 adolescent girls become mothers in Moldova, with a staggering 80% coming from rural areas. Specialists stress that these figures are a clear signal, emphasizing the need for structured, mandatory Sexual Health Education and the establishment of reliable, accessible counseling mechanisms for every young person.
Adolescent mental health is also a major concern. National data indicates that one in three adolescents reports frequent irritability and mood swings, while one in four shows symptoms of anxiety. These emotional vulnerabilities are critical alarm signals that the system can no longer ignore.
The training addressed core intervention methods. Participants focused on techniques for creating a safe space for dialogue and handling disclosures of abuse or suicidal ideation when discussing sexuality, emotions, and crisis situations with teens. The program also highlighted the essential role of schools in both pregnancy and suicide prevention.
Furthermore, specialists were introduced to evidence-based communication and intervention protocols designed to safeguard adolescents during moments of critical vulnerability.
The organizers reiterated their core mission: prevention, protection, and support. The goal is to ensure every adolescent can grow up safely, with confidence, and with guaranteed access to free, confidential psychological support services.
This vital activity was organized under the joint UN Program "Strengthening Human Rights on Both Banks of the Nistru," financially supported by Sweden. The program aims to extend human rights initiatives across the Nistru River, which also includes the separatist region of Transnistria.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
