Since 2012, IPcko has delivered essential psychological services to individuals in crisis with IPcko's helplines, local crisis centers, and welcoming low-threshold clubs, free of charge. Our comprehensive response to crises tackles the rising trends of self-harm and suicide as coping mechanisms for mental health struggles among youth, while also addressing the urgent shortage of mental health professionals, lengthy waiting times, and restricted access to care in Slovakia.
In recent years, the mental health of young people has deteriorated, with issues such as self-harm, loneliness, and suicidal thoughts becoming increasingly prevalent. These challenges have been exacerbated by the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, the invasion of Ukraine with subsequent migration, and the increase in online hate speech. In Slovakia, we face a critical shortage of child psychologists. The lack of available services and support often leads to extreme outcomes.
Our free services currently include both online and in-person support, forming a cohesive and interconnected network that serves as a tool for intervention and prevention of various societal pathological factors. To date, we have established a successful network of 9 crisis intervention centers, supported by outreach field teams in 8 regions, 5 low-threshold youth clubs in 5 cities, and a non-stop crisis helpline. Our psychologists and social workers are trained to respond to any call for help.
Often, we are the last flicker of hope for people in their darkest and loneliest moments. We aim to be there for them, guiding them out of despair and toward a brighter future. Our counseling services work to reduce social isolation and promote inclusion. We are currently able to respond to only 1 in 10 calls for help. This campaign will help us continue to be a lifeline for those who have lost their way, offering the support they need to regain their footing in life.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
Support this important cause by creating a personalized fundraising page.
Start a Fundraiser
