Mental health is an integral part of overall health and wellbeing. In recent years, there has been an increase in awareness and recognition of mental health issues in Croatia. However, there is still a stigma attached to mental health, which makes it challenging for individuals to seek help.
Mental Health Stigma in Croatia
In Croatia, mental health issues are often stigmatized, and seeking help is not always encouraged. The stigma is largely due to a lack of understanding and education about mental health. As a result, individuals with mental health issues may feel ashamed or embarrassed about seeking help, and may even face discrimination.
Counselling and Therapy Services in Croatia
There are a number of counselling and therapy services available in Croatia for English speakers or expats. Here are some of the major organizations that offer such services:
1. Croatian Psychological Association
The Croatian Psychological Association (CPA) is a professional association of psychologists in Croatia. They offer a range of services, including counselling and therapy, as well as psychological assessments and evaluations. The CPA has a directory of registered psychologists on their website, which can help individuals find a psychologist that speaks English. Their website is http://www.hdp.hr/en/.
2. Poliklinika Neuron
Poliklinika Neuron is a private clinic located in Zagreb that offers a range of mental health services, including counselling and therapy. They have a team of psychologists and psychiatrists who speak English, and they offer both individual and group therapy. Their website is https://www.poliklinika-neuron.hr/en/.
3. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM)
The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in Croatia provides counselling services to migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. They have a team of psychologists who speak English, and they offer individual and group counselling. Their website is https://croatia.iom.int/en.
Other Organizations Providing Mental Health Services in Croatia
Apart from the above organizations, there are other organizations in Croatia that provide mental health services. Here are some of them:
1. Hrabri Telefon
Hrabri Telefon is a non-governmental organization that provides a free and confidential helpline for children and youth who need support. They have a team of psychologists who provide counselling services over the phone or online. Their website is https://www.hrabritelefon.hr/home.
2. Zagreb Child and Youth Protection Center
The Zagreb Child and Youth Protection Center is a public institution that provides mental health services to children and youth who have experienced abuse or trauma. They offer individual and group therapy, as well as psychological assessments and evaluations. Their website is https://www.poliklinika-djeca.hr/en/.
3. Dom zdravlja Zagreb – Centar
Dom zdravlja Zagreb – Centar is a public health center in Zagreb that provides a range of medical and mental health services to the local community. They offer individual and group therapy, as well as psychological assessments and evaluations. Their website is http://www.dzz-zagreb-centar.hr/.
Mental health is a vital component of overall health and wellbeing. While there is still a stigma attached to mental health in Croatia, there are a number of organizations that provide counselling and therapy services to English speakers and expats. The Croatian Psychological Association, Poliklinika Neuron, and the International Organisation for Migration are just a few of the organizations that offer such services. Additionally, there are other organizations like Hrabri Telefon, Zagreb Child and Youth Protection Center, and Dom zdravlja Zagreb – Centar that provide mental health services to the local community. It is important for individuals to seek help when needed and to know that there are resources available to them. It is crucial for mental health services to be accessible and available to everyone who needs them.
It is also important for the Croatian government to continue to prioritize mental health education and awareness, as well as to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. With increased awareness and support, individuals with mental health issues can feel empowered to seek help and receive the support they need.
In conclusion, mental health is an essential aspect of overall wellbeing, and it is encouraging to see that there are organizations in Croatia that provide counselling and therapy services to English speakers and expats. It is important to continue to raise awareness about mental health issues and to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in Croatia. By doing so, we can ensure that individuals receive the support they need to maintain their mental health and wellbeing.