Montenegrin society, although rich in tradition and solidarity in crises, has been nurturing a "culture of silence" for years. Problems are often kept silent, and the resolution of conflicts is postponed or ignored, psychologist Al-Ammar Kašić said in "Colors of the morning" on the Vijesti Television program.
Kašić describes this phenomenon as "contextual pathology" – invisible violence that manifests itself in everyday situations such as ugly comments, environmental irresponsibility, and even speeding.
"We often do not recognize the forms of violence in our environment, and address them even less often. Our culture of silence allows problems to accumulate, while we remain passive observers," Kašić points out.
The tragedy in Cetinje, he says, once again reminded of the importance of an open dialogue about mental health.
"In Cetinje, we saw how ignoring problems leads to the escalation of aggression. Without adequate support and education systems, we become a society that reacts only when it is too late," says Kašić.
The SOS phone line for psychological help, opened after the tragedy, is a step in the right direction. However, experts warn that long-term and systemic measures are needed. After earlier tragedies, five female experts appealed to the authorities to introduce psychosocial intervention programs, but their requests remained without a concrete answer.
According to experts, changes must start from individuals because every citizen has the responsibility to contribute to the creation of a better society.
"Every day, with our behavior, we build the society we live in. Every injustice, every silenced problem, contributes to the creation of a toxic environment," emphasizes Kašić.
One of the key steps is recognizing your own role in this process.
"If we ignore the warnings of experts and do not take action, we will remain in a crisis from which there is no way out. It is time to wake up," concludes Kašić.
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