An education and information campaign by the Ministry of Health has been launched to counteract the stigmatisation and self-stigmatisation of people experiencing mental disorders. 'Don't judge. Support people in mental crisis," appeal the ambassadors of the campaign, Sebastian Karpiel-Bułecka and Julia Wróblewska.
Mental disorders affect nearly one in four people in Poland.
The aim of the first such a large campaign in Poland dedicated to the stigmatisation and self-stigmatisation of people in mental crisis is to define the concept of stigmatisation and to present the right attitude towards this phenomenon. Openness and sensitisation towards people in mental crisis, as well as their relatives.
Mental illnesses create fear
As demonstrated by "Comprehensive survey on the mental health status of the population and its determinants - EZOP II "1 carried out by the Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology in Warsaw, although 58 per cent of respondents declared an attitude of benevolence towards people in mental crisis, at the same time they objected to their functioning in specific social roles, especially when these roles involved greater responsibility.
In addition, mental illnesses were listed among the three fear-inducing by around 20 per cent of people, meaning that they are positioned between directly life-threatening illnesses and those burdened by stigma.
See man
The campaign exploits the ambiguity of the phrase 'I thought...', understood as: it seemed to me because I didn't know and didn't understand - and on the other hand - very often denoting passing judgment, condemnation to suffering, pain, isolation and rejection.
The message, without stigmatising, is aimed at those who happen to stigmatise people with mental health problems. They receive a clear message - it is time to change this 'judging', because it will no longer 'seem' like it.
The campaign encourages people not to look through the prism of illness. The slogan 'See the man' is also the address of the website -. www.zobaczczlowieka.pl.
Through the spots used in the campaign, the viewer witnesses a very intimate and personal confession addressed to a person well known in public. The main ambassadors of the campaign in its first instalment are Sebastian Karpiel-Bułecka and Julia Wróblewska. In addition, the campaign will be supported by stories of their experiences from other well-known people who will take part in educational films. The materials will gradually be published on the project website.
The ambassadors will tell what the stigmatised person feels and what can and should be done to stop the stigma. In this way, the campaign gives voice to the biggest experts - the people affected by stigma. In addition, there will be educational films featuring experts who will present the topic from a scientific perspective.
The campaign primarily targets young people and young adults aged 16-30, as well as men aged 30-45, with a particular focus on those living in smaller towns with a population of less than 5 000.
Promotional activities for the campaign will include outdoor, cinemas, television, internet, radio and press.
The 'See the Man' campaign will run until the end of 2024. The task is implemented with funds from the National Health Programme 2021-2025, funded by the Minister of Health.
The TV spots can be viewed here:
Source: cowzdrowiu.pl