“I Am Here for Life” Project from Viatris Turkey

The “I Am Here for Life” project aims to eliminate social stigma—which causes individuals to avoid seeking professional help and speaking openly about their mental health—as well as significant barriers that delay or even prevent access to mental health services.

The project aims to create a society that gives mental health the importance it deserves and to empower individuals to seek the necessary professional support without hesitation.

DEPRESSION RATES ARE INCREASING WORLDWIDE

Association for Psychiatric Sciences and Research (PİBAD) President Prof. Dr. Oğuz Karamustafalıoğlu stated that there is a global increase in mental health disorders, particularly in the prevalence of depression, and continued his words as follows:

“Socio-economic conditions, major life events, and stress factors have contributed to this increase. The World Health Organization reports that 280 million people worldwide are struggling with depression. In particular, the frequency of depression is twice as high in women as in men. In Turkey, it is estimated that the prevalence of depression is approximately 9%, and 60% of cases remain undiagnosed.”

THE “THINKER” ALSO SAYS “I AM HERE FOR LIFE”

Viatris Turkey Corporate Affairs Director Esin Eylem Sönmez drew attention to the importance of the project and said: "Almost everyone knows the 'The Thinker' statue made by sculptor Auguste Rodin. Its replica in Turkey is one of the most well-known statues in the country. In Turkey, 'The Thinker' is often used as a symbol representing mental health disorders such as depression. The construction of this specific statue was started by sculptor Kemal Künmat; the missing arm of the statue was completed by Captain Mehmet Pişdar, who was receiving treatment for depression at the time. The fact that this statue was completed by a depression patient inspired us in the preparation of our project.

In this project, we envisioned 'The Thinker' in our minds as an individual who, thanks to social awareness, can participate in life, be productive, spend time with loved ones, and feel healthy and safe by receiving the professional support they need without hesitation. The Green Umbrella figure, with its color, not only symbolizes the healing power of nature but also represents protection from negative thoughts."

“MENTAL HEALTH IS A FUNDAMENTAL PILLAR”

Viatris Turkey & Russia Country Manager Tayga Kaan Hilal said the following regarding the project:

"I am truly honored to introduce our 'I Am Here for Life' project, a powerful initiative that aims to raise awareness about depression and encourage individuals to seek the professional support they need. Mental health is a fundamental pillar of our overall well-being. With the “I Am Here for Life” project, we aim to empower individuals who have difficulty taking that critical first step on the road to recovery. Through such projects that increase social awareness, we can prevent the stigma surrounding mental health disorders and ensure that individuals struggling with depression do not feel alone on this journey."