Henrikas Šepetys
Author
2026-05-10 18:13 • 4 min read
On the afternoon of May 10, the surroundings of Vingio Park in Vilnius were filled with families for the third annual “Stronger Together” (Stipresnės kartu) event. The gathering demonstrated that for parents in the Lithuanian capital, speaking openly about exhaustion and emotional challenges is shifting from a taboo to a sign of community strength. This year, several hundred participants joined the procession and discussions to mark World Maternal Mental Health Day.
What began three years ago as a small initiative has evolved into a significant city tradition. Participants gathered at the Vingio Park bridge on the Žvėryno side—a historic district known for its greenery—from where a colorful procession stretched to the park’s central stage. This route symbolized more than just a physical walk; it represented a societal journey toward greater openness regarding mental health.
Simona Bieliūnė, Vice-Mayor of Vilnius, emphasized that the city has successfully cultivated a safe space where topics of well-being and mutual aid are becoming natural. According to Bieliūnė, the sense of community and the understanding that seeking help is not shameful are essential for strengthening family resilience. Despite less-than-ideal weather, the high turnout confirmed a growing need to discuss the unvarnished realities of parenthood.
This year’s event stood out by placing a spotlight on fathers as well as mothers. During the discussion sessions, actor Arūnas Sakalauskas, who recently became a father, shared his experiences with humor and honesty. He raised questions about the equal role of fathers in the family, the necessity of providing emotional backing for mothers, and how men often tend to remain silent about their own struggles.
This openness helped participants understand that a mother’s emotional well-being is the foundation of the entire family’s microclimate. When family members can recognize fatigue, anxiety, or confusion, finding solutions becomes a shared process. The event served not only as a social gathering but as an opportunity to access real information about support services available within the city.
While younger participants spent time in creative workshops and with animators, adults had the opportunity to try specific self-help tools. One such activity was a dance-movement therapy session led by Gabrielė Raudytė-Dombrauskė. These activities are designed to help physically release accumulated tension and find new ways to relax within the daily routine.
Specialists were available in partner zones to provide consultations on pregnancy and the postpartum period. Parents could learn about:
Free parenting skills classes organized in Vilnius;
Factors that promote mental health and how to strengthen them at home;
The accessibility of professional psychological help in the capital;
Peer support groups where mothers share their experiences.
The combined efforts of the “Mama mums rūpi” (Mom Cares for Us) initiative, the Vilnius Public Health Bureau (“Vilnius sveikiau”), and the Vilnius City Municipality reflect a systemic approach to family health. The event served as a reminder that emotional stability is a basic need supported by a strong community. Information distributed regarding the recognition and prevention of postpartum depression provided a practical tool for many families, especially those who may feel isolated or hesitant to visit medical institutions.
What is the ‘Stronger Together’ event in Vilnius?
It is an annual family event held in Vingio Park to mark World Maternal Mental Health Day, focusing on open discussions about parenting challenges and providing information on support services.
What services are available for parents in Vilnius?
The city offers free parenting skills classes, professional psychological consultations, and peer support groups through the Vilnius Public Health Bureau (‘Vilnius sveikiau’).
Who organized the event?
The event was organized by the Vilnius City Municipality, the Vilnius Public Health Bureau ‘Vilnius sveikiau’, and the initiative ‘Mama mums rūpi’.
Simona BieliūnėArūnas SakalauskasGabrielė Raudytė-Dombrauskė