“Mental Health for All” is a project implemented by the Psychosocial Innovation Network (PIN), with the support of the Association of Serbian Banks, aimed at providing free and accessible psychological support to those who need it most
In Serbia, over 700,000 people are faced with challenges such as depression, anxiety, and alcohol abuse, while systemic support is often lacking – primarily due to a shortage of psychologists in health centres, a limited number of community mental health centres, and the stigma that still surrounds this topic.
The project is being implemented in several cities across Serbia, through services made available within local communities, where PIN professionals provide support to young people, parents of children with developmental difficulties, individuals experiencing work-related stress, and anyone encountering psychological challenges.
The idea is to stop viewing mental health as a private issue and instead treat it as a matter of social responsibility that we must all, as a society, prioritise.
Currently, three support programmes are active: support groups addressing workplace burnout, support groups for youth, and support groups for parents of children with developmental disabilities. The first two groups are held in Belgrade, at PIN’s premises, while the programme for parents takes place in Ruma, at the Marriage and Family Counselling Centre. Following the initial cycle, further workshops are planned in the same locations.
The idea is to stop viewing mental health as a private issue and instead treat it as a matter of social responsibility that we must all, as a society, prioritise
“When mental health is compromised, the consequences are not only felt by the individual – they extend to the family, the work environment, and the wider community. Our model is based on the principles of community mental health, which are also advocated in national strategies. It’s important that people know – support exists, and it’s not far away,” says Maša Vukčević Marković, Director of PIN.
However, in order for the project to truly become accessible to all, additional support is necessary. On the occasion of the second Banking Summit, to be held at the end of 2024, a charity dinner was organised, with funds raised sufficient to cover support for 100 beneficiaries. The goal now is to secure additional funding in order to reach over 400 people across the country.
“Banks in Serbia have recognised the importance of this initiative and have shown their willingness to help. But this is an opportunity for all of us – both companies and individuals – to contribute to a better society. When we invest in mental health, we invest in people,” states Marina Papadakis, Secretary General of the Association of Serbian Banks.
Statistics confirm the urgency: one in three people in Serbia experience mental health difficulties, yet there are fewer than two psychologists per 100,000 citizens within primary healthcare. For years, Serbia has been among the top European countries in terms of the consumption of sedatives – often the only available solution, though one that does not address the root of the problem.
Over the past ten years, the PIN organisation has implemented more than 75 projects, with the support of numerous donors, including the World Health Organization and the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Serbia. More than 12,000 people have taken part in their programmes.
