A public forum titled "Climate Change and the Mental Health of Individuals and Communities" was held on 9 November in the Small Hall of the Krapina People's Open School. The event was organised by the HDZ Women's Association "Katarina Zrinski" of Krapina-Zagorje County.
The topic was addressed by Dr sc. Josip Lopižić, a clinical psychology specialist and president of the Croatian Psychological Society, while the forum was moderated by Blaženka Gorupić, president of the county Women's Association. The gathering was marked by significant citizen interest and active participation — attendees followed the lecture, asked questions and engaged in the discussion.
The conversation covered psychological reactions that can accompany extreme weather events such as floods, fires, storms and heatwaves, as well as long-term anxiety about environmental changes. Some of the possible reactions cited included stress, anxiety, insecurity, a sense of helplessness and sleep difficulties. It was emphasised that people react differently to such experiences and that support from family, experts and the community can be an important pillar in coping and recovery.
The discussion expanded to other important mental health issues, including the well-being of young people, psychological counselling and psycho-oncology. Dr sc. Lopižić gained his long-term experience in clinical and health psychology working in the Department of Psychiatry at Dubrovnik General Hospital, and his areas of expertise cover mental health, psycho-oncology and clinical neuropsychology. Participants discussed the importance of recognising difficulties, seeking professional help in a timely manner and creating an environment where mental health can be discussed openly and without stigma.
Blaženka Gorupić expressed satisfaction with the turnout and the conversation that developed during the forum. She stated that she was extremely pleased that the forum gathered so many interested citizens and that the lecture turned into an open and substantive exchange of views. She thanked everyone who came, carefully followed the presentation and contributed to the discussion with their questions, as well as Dr sc. Josip Lopižić for his professional and stimulating lecture.
Gorupić also stated that she believes they have collectively opened up important reflection on how to better care for ourselves, each other and the community. She highlighted that the interest and participation of the audience provide additional motivation to continue organising meetings on topics important to citizens, expressing hope that this is just the first in a series of forums.
