One in ten children show symptoms of anxiety and depression, and one in seven children has post-traumatic stress disorder caused by earthquakes, according to the latest research conducted in Zagreb, Croatian Radio and Television reported.

The city institution "Polyclinic for protection of children and youth" conducted a survey on the mental health of children and youth in the city of Zagreb on a sample of 22 thousand children, one year after the first earthquake and one month after the second earthquake. This research allowed parents of children with disabilities to receive advice and guidance on how and what to do next, and to whom to turn.

"We think it would be good to continue such a practice at the level of the whole of Croatia, and especially in the area that was additionally affected by the earthquake," said Dr. Mirela Centija Knesevic, head of the Zagreb City Health Department.

Mental health is one of the challenges and priorities of the World Health Organization. Last week marked World Suicide Day, and the numbers are staggering around the world, including in Croatia.

The city of Zagreb has been dealing with this issue continuously for several years.

"We have provided numerous programs to help and support children and youth in the area of ​​the city of Zagreb. We try to provide mostly free programs, which means that they are available for parents and children without a referral, with prior notice ", says Sentija Knezevic.

It is important to understand that mental disorders are treatable and that recovery is possible. Adolescent crises are common and can be successfully overcome. Those who are first aid and support are parents, then psychologists and professional associates in schools, and the hospital is finally at the end of that system, notes Stimac Grbic, head of the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Prevention at the Croatian Institute of Public Health

Source: MIA