Alarm: Number of Albanians laid out in psychiatric hospitals increases

More Albanians suffering from mental health problems are seeking specialized assistance. According to data from the Ministry of Health, in the first four months of the year at psychiatric hospitals, 749 citizens were admitted, this figure almost 2-fold within three years.

“The post-Covid situation is a very important element that is thought to have a direct impact on the growth of these people. Because the isolation and uncertainty we had about life are thought to directly affect the growth of these” figures, says Eneida Frasher, professor and psychologists.

“We have a coexistence of trauma, as there are other situations, such as job loss, economic hardship, crisis, war in Ukraine, which does not seem to affect us, but it is simply the fear and uncertainty that breeds on individuals. All these factors create emotional conglomerates that could lead to the need for psychiatric treatment”, says Lenida Halilaj, professor, psychologist.

Meanwhile, psychologists claim that such figures can be even higher. “At least in my perception, there are very many who need to receive these services, but refuse because of stigmatisation, prejudice”, Frasher says.

And progress indicates further increase in cases of those with mental health problems. <x) I would suggest, focus on psychological counseling, besides taking medication”, Halilaj says.

The country estimates that 1 out of 4 citizens suffers from mental health, while disorders are more common in youth age groups.