The COVID-19 pandemic leaves deep imprints on the souls of millions of people. The World Health Organization estimates that mental health in the future will become increasingly affected and subject to pressure, the rector of “N. Testemițanu” State University of Medicine and Pharmacy Emil Ceban stated in the International Congress of the Society of Physiatrists, Narcologists, Psychotherapists and Clinical Psychologists that is held in Chisinau on June 24-26. The second event of the kind brought together about 300 specialists, IPN reports.

According to Emil Ceban, the teaching staff and mental health professionals should be trained and ready to cope with the increased demand for assistance on the part of the population.

Jana Chihai, president of the Society of Physiatrists, Narcologists, Psychotherapists and Clinical Psychologists, said the pandemic brought the mental health specialists face to face with exceptional challenges. “We are going through a difficult period and the current context remains a challenge for us all, especially for mental health professionals” stated Jana Chihai.