World Health Day is celebrated on April 7th every year to raise awareness about the importance of global health and commemorate the establishment of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948. The theme of World Health Day 2023 is equality in mental health (“Health for All”), emphasizing the need for everyone to have access to mental health protection, regardless of socio-economic background, ethnicity, or location.
On this occasion, Verlab Institute and Homework HUB organized a working session dedicated to the health of young people. The aim of this working session was to highlight the need for constant reminders and emphasis on the importance of taking care of a healthier lifestyle among the young population.
The following topics were discussed during the event:
– Mental health of young people with psychotherapist Nermina Vehabović Rudež;
⁃ Using AI for better health with Adna Softić, expert associate of the Verlab Institute;
⁃ Application of artificial intelligence in sports performance predictions with M.Sc. sci. Azrom Ademović, Verlab Institute;
⁃ Women’s health with Naida Krajina, medical student;
⁃ Rational use of medicines with Lejla Drinčić, pharmacy student.
Verlab Institute and Homework HUB focused on the health of young people because they are often exposed to stress, anxiety, and depression, and also have bad habits such as overeating, lack of exercise, and sitting in front of the computer. Therefore, it is important to raise awareness among young people about the importance of a healthy lifestyle and to provide them with support in addressing mental health problems that are a vital part of the overall health status of individuals.
According to WHO, one in four people worldwide could have mental health problems at some point in their lives. Mental health problems affect individuals, families, and communities, and have significant social and economic consequences.
The concept of “mental health equity” argues that everyone, regardless of circumstances, should have equal access to psychological health care. Promoting mental health equity could significantly help digital coaching. For those who may not have access to conventional mental health treatments, digital coaching can offer accessible and personalized support.
Increasing access to conventional mental health treatments, reducing stigma, and advocating for social and economic policies that support mental health are just some of the responses needed to improve mental health equity.
Together, people, communities, employers, and politicians can ensure that everyone has access to the resources and care they need to achieve optimal mental well-being, and that mental health is given the same importance as physical health. This involves funding research, education, and training for mental health professionals, as well as supporting laws that promote equality in mental health. We can build a society in which mental health is respected, prioritized, and available to everyone by addressing the underlying causes of care deficits and striving to remove those barriers.”
