On World Mental Health Day, clinical psychologist Dr. Andia Meksi discussed Albania’s growing focus on mental well-being.
She explained that mental health encompasses not only illness but also everyday resilience, coping, and self-care, emphasising that well-being requires continuous attention. While stigma has declined, it still hinders open help-seeking. Andia described national efforts to train family doctors, expand psychological services in schools and workplaces, and embed mental health into primary care. She warned about the harmful effects of social media, particularly on adolescents, including comparison, low self-esteem, and perfectionism. Finally, she highlighted the iFightDepression program, an evidence-based self-management platform for mild to moderate anxiety and depression, effective only when used under professional supervision.