On 26 February 2026, the national forum STRESS OFF – TECH ON was held in the “John Atanasoff” hall at Sofia Tech Park, dedicated to the relationship between science, technology, and stress prevention as a factor for sustainable development. The event was organised by Somenso — a member of the Bulgarian-Swiss Chamber of Commerce — in partnership with Sofia Tech Park, the Association for Research and Development, and AFCEA-Sofia.

The forum brought together in one place mental health experts, scientists, physicians, representatives of institutions, businesses, and the non-governmental sector, all united around the thesis that stress is a systemic psychosocial hazard with a direct impact on public health and the economy. Among the official guests was Deputy Minister of Health Peter Gribnev, who agreed on the need for a more active role of the state in the prevention and early detection of chronic stress, as well as on the readiness of institutions to work towards developing targeted policies in this direction.

In the course of discussions among physicians, military personnel, academics, public figures, representatives of the executive branch, and other civic stakeholders, scientific data and technological solutions for stress management were presented, along with best practices for their application in various professional environments. Emphasis was placed on the link between chronic stress and non-communicable diseases, as well as on the possibilities for changing behavioural patterns through awareness and innovation.

Among the key conclusions of the forum was that effective prevention requires coordinated efforts between institutions, science, and business, as well as the development of long-term, data-driven policies underpinned by modern technologies. The event laid the groundwork for future partnerships and concrete steps towards building a healthier and more resilient social environment.

The organisers announced that the next edition of the forum will take place on 20 February 2027, again at Sofia Tech Park, and will be expanded to include international experts, specialised workshops, and additional formats for the exchange of knowledge and practical experience.