Lithuanian Influencer’s Viral Post Sparks National Conversation on Mental Health
A recent social media post by a Lithuanian influencer has ignited a nationwide discussion about the pervasive impact of online negativity and the critical importance of mental wellbeing, particularly as World Mental Health Day approaches on October 10th.
Ugnė Siparė shared a video detailing her initial playful response to online “haters” – encouraging more negative comments, believing they would only boost her reach and statistics. However, she was surprised by the video’s resonance, garnering over 700,000 views and 15,000 likes on Instagram alone. “I realized it touched so many people – whether you’re an influencer, an accountant, or work in television,” Siparė explained. “We all encounter hate and malicious comments that sometimes hurt more than we’d like to admit.”
The experience prompted Siparė to reflect on the challenges even adults face in coping with negative online interactions. This concern is amplified when considering the daily struggles of adolescents and children confronting bullying in schools and online spaces. “If it’s sometimes difficult for me, a 35-year-old, to deal with this, I’m still learning, but those comments really sting sometimes, hitting you in the head,” she stated. “Even though you theoretically understand that it’s just another person’s hurt, having nothing to do with you, it still hurts. If I struggle with this, what about a young person facing the same bullying at school, in the yard, or among peers?”
This realization fueled Siparė’s decision to share her thoughts as World Mental Health Day approaches. The non-governmental organization “Jaunimo linija” (Youth Line) and its partner, “Tele2,” are using the occasion to remind the public that emotional health is as vital as physical health.
Siparė has consistently advocated for the connection between physical and emotional wellbeing. “I’ve often said publicly that I exercise not only for physical health but also for my emotional health and peace of mind,” she noted. “But it’s not just about one day. It’s worth thinking about peace of mind, a healthy mind, and tranquility in the heart and soul every day.” She emphasized the importance of paying attention to children, watching for signs of withdrawal, isolation, or excessive worry, which can be difficult to detect. “I’m very happy that more and more people are talking about this today and increasingly understanding how important it is to fight bullying and the tendency towards depression and hate.”
The national campaign “Žalia šviesa gyvenimui” (Green Light for Life) uses green as its symbolic color. Individuals are encouraged to participate symbolically on October 10th by wearing a green accent, taking a photo, and sharing it on social media, tagging “Jaunimo linija” and using the hashtag #sureikšminkimjausmus.
“These are small but meaningful gestures,” Siparė said. “If we just take a moment to think about how our words can affect others, that’s already a big step forward. Let’s take care of not only our bodies but also our emotional health, and especially each other.”
A conference on emotional resilience will be held on October 10th at the Kaunas “Ąžuolyno” Library, featuring a presentation by psychologist and writer Almantas Dulkys, with discussions involving psychologists and representatives from “Jaunimo linija.” In the evening, events will move to Vilnius, with creative activities and a concert at the “Kablys” cultural bar. At 7:00 PM, buildings across Lithuania will be illuminated in green, symbolizing support for emotional strength.
“Tele2,” a long-term supporter of “Jaunimo linija,” is joining the fifth annual “Žalia šviesa gyvenimui” campaign this year, urging a collective focus on mental and emotional health.
