2025-06-03
| Belgrade

Public debate “Youth Mental Health in Serbia: Is Society Ready to Recognize and Respond to the Crisis?”

Centre Dialogue – Social Forum

The Center for Democracy Foundation, in cooperation with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, organized a debate on June 3, 2025, titled “Youth Mental Health in Serbia: Is Society Ready to Recognize and Respond to the Crisis?”.

The discussion featured: Aleksandra Parojčić, Institute of Mental Health of Serbia; Stanislava Vučković, UNICEF; Sara Dojčinović, Psychosocial Innovation Network (PIN); Milica Borjanić, National Youth Council of Serbia (KOMS); Snežana Mrvić, CEZAM; Mara Ognjenović, software engineer and influencer; Snežana Simić, retired professor of social medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade; Dobrila Marković, OPENS; Nataša Đereg, CEKOR; Aleksandar Popović, SKGO, among others. The debate was moderated by journalist Ivana Stojanović.

The event addressed the findings of the latest research conducted by the Institute of Mental Health, discussing the causes, consequences, and possible strategies for improving youth mental health. The role of institutions, the education system, families, and the wider community was also examined.

According to the research, one in five young people in Serbia, with an average age of 14 and a half, has a serious psychiatric disorder - most commonly suicidal behavior, depression, and anxiety. Experts emphasize the lack of systemic support and services capable of responding to the growing needs of youth. While younger generations are more willing to seek help, it is crucial that all adolescent groups are included in research. To turn examples of good practice into standard procedures, a well-structured system and cross-sectoral cooperation are necessary.

The debate was organized by the Center for Democracy Foundation in cooperation with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation as part of the project Centre Dialogue – Social Forum.