ANALYSIS OF ACTIVITIES IN THE FIELD OF HEALTH PROMOTION, PROPHYLAXIS AND PREVENTION OF MENTAL DISORDERS AMONG CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS IN POLAND AND WORLDWIDE

Abstract

Aim: The study aims to compare Polish methods of health promotion and prevention (prophylaxis) of mental disorders among children and adolescents with solutions have their effect in other countries when assessing the effectiveness (in both groups). Material and methods: Based on legal acts concerning mental health protection and data on preventive programs conducted both in Poland and in other countries, not only the methods of operation and the differences between them were compared but also recommendations were made regarding making possible changes to the current activities in Poland. Results: In territorial self-government units, where help is offered mainly to teenagers, introducing the intervention may be too late. Besides, due to the limited number of places offering such aid, incl. municipal programs, the issue emerges – concerning the ensuring of appropriate preventive measures – which results in the deterioration of the situation in this age group category and eventuate in the escalation of the current situation. Conclusions: To prevent the widespreadness of the disorders mentioned above, it is necessary to modify and extend the scope of preventive measures and activities regarding mental health promotion in Poland.