We integrated a global project with Viatris and Sesame Street Workshop in Türkiye in 2022.
The ongoing pandemic has increased stress and pressure on many people worldwide, as well as altered family dynamics. According to a World Health Organization (WHO) report, one out of every seven children has a mental health problem, and mental health diseases account for 13% of the global disease burden in this age group. As caregivers return to work and children return to school and activities outside the home, global lockdown measures and the resulting isolation surrounding mental health and well-being are becoming more common and must be addressed.
“Susam Sokağı– Birbirimizi Önemseyelim” initiative reached families in more than 100 countries, in 41 languages. Resources have been developed to support families’ social and emotional needs, as well as to assist children across generations following Covid-19. The materials, which are available in Turkish on the Viatris YouTube channel, include five new videos featuring Elmo and his friends from Sesame Street, as well as clinical psychologist advice. We held a press conference to introduce the videos to the public.
Panelists at the launch emphasized best practices for ensuring the well-being of children and families during times of transition. Viatris Country Manager for Türkiye, Tayga Kaan Hilal, Academician and Author Dr. Bahar Eriş, Bahçeşehir University Computer, and Instructional Technology Department Head Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yavuz Samur and famous actress Akasya Asıltürkmen shared their perspectives based on their personal and professional experiences.
