Movie nights with conversations about mental health

Every person is valuable. Mental disorders are very diverse and can affect anyone. In an understanding and accepting society, individuals and their loved ones don’t need to hide; they can seek support without fear of misunderstanding or condemnation, thus reducing the negative impact of mental health issues on their lives.

With the support of European Union funds, community-based services for people with mental disorders are being developed throughout Latvia. To truly enable these individuals to integrate into society, stabilize, and improve their health, the understanding, acceptance, and support of those around them are also essential.

Understanding the Different' – under this slogan, cinema evenings took place this October in five Latvian cities – Alūksne, Ogre, Liepāja, Talsi, and Krāslava. This was an opportunity not only to watch the excellent Latvian film “Izmisums” ("Despair") but also to meet its director Kārlis Lesiņš, the author of the recently published “Izmisums” book, Oskars Tarvids from the publishing house Jumava, improvisational theater actress Anete Bendika, and other wonderful people, and to discuss mental health, diversity, people and circumstances, and the importance of an inclusive society and human rights in everyone's life.