Regina Maria Is Pioneering Mental Health Movement Simply Asking “How Do You Really Feel?”

Have you ever stopped to consider the power of a simple conversation? In a world where the hustle and bustle can often sweep us away, taking a moment to connect on a deeper level can be transformative. Regina Maria, Romania's foremost healthcare network, together with creative ad agency Punk understand this truth and are championing a groundbreaking mental health campaign that's starting a nationwide conversation.

Picture the bustling streets of Bucharest in 2024. The city is alive, yet beneath the surface, many of its citizens are wrestling with the silent struggles of the mind. The pandemic, economic strains, and the echoes of conflict have left indelible marks on mental health. And let's not forget the double-edged sword of social media, ever-present, with its capacity to isolate as much as it connects.

Regina Maria has seen the signs and is responding with action. "How do you really feel?" is not just a question; it's an invitation—a call to revive the lost art of sharing our emotional landscapes. Dr. Oana Nicolau, a clinical psychologist, reminds us, " Although it may be challenging at times, being vulnerable with others and expressing our emotions can lead to feelings of connection and support."

The campaign focuses on an experiment aimed to help individuals recognize that we are naturally inclined to communicate about our feelings. However, as we grow older, we often suppress our emotions and only share what is socially acceptable.

This movement is more than just talk. It's about real connection, and nowhere was this more evident than at Untold, the largest electronic music festival in Romania. Regina Maria set a precedent by being the first healthcare brand to offer mental health assistance right where the heart of youth culture beats. The response was overwhelming, with queues of people eager to exchange words that heal.

And the impact didn't stop there!

Imagine this: You're at the vibrant Untold festival, the music is electrifying, and the energy is high. Amidst the celebration, there's a space of solace and understanding—a Mental Health First Aid Corner. Here, festival-goers are not just enjoying the beats but also engaging in something extraordinary. They're being asked, "How do you really feel?" and are given the chance to share, perhaps for the first time, their innermost thoughts with professional therapists.

Artists, those idols of the young generation, took the stage not only to perform but to share their own vulnerabilities. Their voices amplified the message, echoing the question, "How do you really feel?" to thousands. It was a collective moment of emotional release, an acknowledgment that we're all in this together.

The ripples of this campaign are far-reaching. With gen Z at the forefront, facing rising anxiety and depression, Regina Maria's initiative is a beacon of hope. Over half have turned to music for solace, yet many still search for a way to alleviate their stress. This campaign might just be the lifeline they need.

Regina Maria's message is clear: Talking might not be the cure-all, but it's a vital step towards feeling capable and motivated to seek further support. It's a mental health awakening, and as the largest healthcare network in Romania, they're leading the charge. “Our therapists and our entire communication campaign reminded the festival-goers how important being in contact with your own emotions can be for your own health. There is no health without mental health. If we cannot speak our emotions, our body will find a way to do it” (Miruna Meiroșu, Brand Manager Regina Maria)

So, next time you find yourself amidst the buzz of life, take a moment. Ask someone, "How do you really feel?" and listen. It could be the most important conversation you have today. For those seeking to join this movement or learn more about the benefits of open dialogue, Regina Maria is here to guide you on this journey of rediscovery and healing. 

 “Young generation readiness to open up is invigorating and gives us hope. We are in the middle of a mental health awakening and more people than ever need our help. Talking isn’t the whole solution but it can help us feel more able to cope and encouraged to seek support if we need to.” Raluca Kovacs - founder and CSO at Punk Communication. 

Because sometimes, the simplest questions can lead to the most profound connections.