New campaign supports people affected by mental health issues in Moldova
Over 70,000 people in the Republic of Moldova live with mental health issues, but many avoid seeking medical help due to societal prejudice and stigma. To change public perception of mental health and promote the inclusion of those experiencing these challenges, the Ministry of Health launched a national campaign called "Part of Me" on Monday, June 30.
The initiative is being implemented with the support of Switzerland through the Moldovan-Swiss project MENSANA, which stands for "Support for the Reform of Mental Health Services in Moldova." Its aim is to promote empathy, understanding, and access to mental health services while reducing discrimination against individuals diagnosed with mental disorders.
Minister of Health Emil Ceban argues that mental health should be viewed as a natural component of overall health, emphasizing that a diagnosis should not define a person's identity.
“Mental health is a part of each of us. Through this campaign, we want to encourage a change in perspective—from judgment to understanding, from labeling to empathy and support. Every person has the right to respect, quality services, and the opportunity to live with dignity. 'A part of me' reminds us that a diagnosis does not define a person,” said Emil Ceban.
A campaign inspired by real experiences
Experts note that this campaign is inspired by the real stories of individuals who have faced mental health challenges. The campaign’s message is illustrated through the restoration of damaged items, symbolizing that, just like clothing, carpets, or ceramics, people retain their value even after undergoing repair. They do not lose their identity, place in society, or the ability to lead a normal life when confronting such difficulties.
“Behind every diagnosis, there is a person, a family, and a story. Through this campaign, we want to highlight that community support can make a significant difference. Mental health concerns us all,” said Victoria Condrat, the local manager of the MENSANA project.
The campaign features individuals who have experienced mental health challenges, specifically beneficiaries of community mental health centers in the country. They share their recovery stories and collaborate with artists and restorers to restore objects that symbolize their life experiences.
“The mental health issues I faced are part of my life, but they do not define my entire story. I am still Vera, who loves her children and grandchildren and learned to sew from my grandmother. Through this campaign, I hope to help others understand that we are more than our diagnoses. When people look at the dress I restored, I hope they don’t just see the area where it broke. I want them to see the whole dress. Just as my experience is just one part of me, it is not everything I am,” explained Vera Țăruș, one of the featured individuals.
The initiative will last several months and include the launch of a video manifesto, a series of testimonials based on real experiences, informative materials available online and in public spaces, and an exhibition dedicated to recovery and inclusion.
Simultaneously, events will take place at ten community mental health centers across the country. These gatherings will unite beneficiaries, family members, specialists, and representatives from local communities.
The discussions will focus on mental health, recovery, and the roles that individuals can play in combating stigma.
The Moldovan-Swiss project MENSANA – "Support for the Reform of Mental Health Services in Moldova" – is being implemented with the support of the Swiss Government, in line with the reform needs identified by the Ministry of Health.
