February 23rd marks National Depression Awareness Day, established in 2001 by the Minister of Health. It is an important date that reminds us of the serious health and social challenges posed by depression. According to data from the World Health Organization, depression is one of the most serious diseases in the world and one of the leading causes of suicide.
Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or social status. It often develops gradually, robbing people of their energy, joy of life, and sense of purpose. It manifests itself in persistent sadness, loss of interest, difficulty sleeping and concentrating, feelings of guilt and hopelessness, and in the most severe cases, suicidal thoughts. It is a disease that can and should be treated. Access to reliable knowledge, professional support, and education of those around the sufferer are crucial.
Nicolaus Copernicus Superior School: from analysis to action
Nicolaus Copernicus Superior School is actively involved in activities in the field of suicidology, combining scientific research with practical education and support for local communities.
In 2024-2025, SGMK implemented the project “Suicidology – state of knowledge analysis and educational campaign,” funded by the Minister of Science and Higher Education.
Two years of intensive work – concrete results
As part of the project:
- a specialized knowledge portal suicydologa.sgmk.edu.pl was created,
- a nearly 1,500-page scientific report was prepared,
- over 6,000 people in 72 cities throughout Poland were trained,
- a podcast entitled “Jestem tu, jeszcze” (“I’m still here”) was produced and promoted, which achieved over 100,000 views,
- a 350-page scientific monograph entitled “Suicydologia. Między analizą a działaniem” (“Suicidology. Between analysis and action”) was prepared and published.
The results of the study showed, among other things, that as many as 87% of teachers in Poland have never participated in training in suicidology, and 10% of children and young people do not have anyone to talk to in difficult moments. These data confirm the enormous need for systemic educational and preventive measures.
The results of the project were presented at the Economic Forum in Karpacz, the Jagiellonian University, the University of Gdańsk, and many other academic centers.
Education as the foundation of prevention
SGMK’s activities in the field of suicidology show that effective prevention requires cooperation between scientific, educational, and social communities. Disseminating knowledge, training teachers and parents, providing access to reliable materials, and building social awareness are key elements of the support system.
National Depression Awareness Day is a moment of reflection, but also a reminder that mental health should be part of the public debate throughout the year. SGMK declares its readiness to further develop research and educational activities in this area.
Where to seek help?
If you or someone you know needs support, it is worth taking advantage of free forms of assistance:
- Antidepressant Telephone Forum Against Depression – tel. 22 594 91 00 (Wednesday–Thursday, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.)
- Helpline for adults in emotional crisis – tel. 116 123 (Monday–Friday, 2:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.)
- Helpline for Children and Youth – tel. 116 111 (24/7)
- ITAKA – Antidepressant Helpline – tel. 22 484 88 01 (Monday–Friday, 3:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.)
Talking can be the first and most important step. You don’t have to face a crisis alone.
