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Further insights from the research conducted in Bulgaria, Cyprus, Estonia, Lithuania, and Sweden.

In each of the surveyed countries, at least half of the young participants indicated they possess sufficient skills to maintain their own mental health, although this number is concerningly low.

The participants suggested an array of tools for mental well-being that they commonly use:

Engaging with family and friends,
Pursuing hobbies and personal interests, including music, dancing, movies, and books,
Spending active leisure time,
Prioritizing rest and a nutritious diet,
Seeking psychotherapy,
Connecting with nature,
Practicing yoga and meditation,
Participating in sports,
Traveling,
Implementing techniques of positive thinking,
Engaging in reflective practices.
Unfortunately, some respondents admitted to neglecting their mental health, while others revealed they resort to substances such as ci******es or alcohol as coping mechanisms.

We are continuing to share findings from a study on young people's knowledge of mental health in Bulgaria, Cyprus, Estonia, Lithuania, and Sweden.

In partner countries like Bulgaria, Sweden, Lithuania, the vast majority (around 70-80 percent) of individuals have not sought professional help for their mental health. The numbers in Cyprus and Estonia are slightly better, with 53 and 58 percent, respectively. This data highlights the prevailing rarity of seeking assistance from mental health professionals in these countries.

Our research findings from Bulgaria, Cyprus, Estonia, Lithuania, and Sweden continue to reveal insights.

Social stigma.
One significant observation is the prevalence of social stigma associated with mental health illnesses. Although the extent of this stigma may vary between countries, with Bulgaria and Cyprus showing relatively lower levels, it is still a significant issue across all the nations studied. Many individuals reported experiencing bullying, gossip, or isolation from their social groups as a result of their mental health challenges.

We are continuing to share findings from a study on young people's knowledge of mental health in Bulgaria, Cyprus, Estonia, Lithuania, and Sweden.

When it comes to discussing mental health issues, less than 50% of respondents from Estonia, Lithuania, and Sweden felt at ease doing so. In Cyprus, a larger proportion felt comfortable, which could potentially be attributed to the older age of the respondents. Interestingly, most participants felt only somewhat comfortable discussing these topics, primarily with select friends. This demonstrates the significant role friends play during this stage of life.

Sharing the second part of our beautiful infographics 😍

We recently conducted focus groups and interviews with young individuals across five countries. The research aimed to assess their knowledge and understanding of mental health.

Although mental health awareness is increasing, there is still much to learn. In various countries, only a few respondents mentioned intellectual disabilities such as ADHD and autism, or conditions like Alzheimer's, instead of mental health issues. This indicates that further education is necessary for young people to be able to differentiate between various disorders and syndromes.

Today we start to share our Research results.

The questionnaire covered all age groups from 16 to 30, the main part being 16-25 years old.
The absolute majority of the respondents were females, which could indicate that they feel much more comfortable speaking about mental health issues than male population of this age.
Significant part of the respondents were school or university students, some of them post graduates.

The questionnaire reported that youth in general has a good knowledge of what mental health and well-being is.
As for the concrete disorders, the vast majority of all the respondents could mention one or few illnesses. Most popular answers being:
Stress
Depression
Anxiety disorders
Insomnia
Addictions
Being suicidal, wanting to hurt themselves
Bipolar
Schizophrenia
OCD
PTSD
Eating disorders

Today we introduce you to our Estonian partner - VitaTiim

Check their profile to see more amazing activities.

Today we also share with you an amazing tool to work on Mental Health topics in youth work.

Board game 'Nø Shame Game' developed by No Shame- Traveller Youth Mental Health Campaign

Cool! Right?

Meet our partner from Cyprus 🇨🇾

Connecting DOTS

ConnectingDOTS is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation established in Nicosia, Cyprus as a response to COVID-19 pandemic that has exacerbated social isolation and highlighted the need to rebuild health and mental resilience and address the digital and green transformation challenges that lie ahead. ConnectingDOTS acts as a social collaboration platform among citizens in Cyprus and across Europe, with the aim to bring real, lasting social change for the benefit of human welfare.

Our mission is to motivate and empower people to play a vital role in their own development and well-being as well as in that of their communities, especially in view of the digital and green transformation. We believe that social development is about improving the well-being of every individual in society and removing all the barriers so they can reach their full potential and navigate toward their dreams and aspirations with confidence and dignity.

Our vision is to build resilient communities across Europe where citizens from different social and ethnic groups, regardless their age

One more beautiful partner. This time is from Lithuania - Tavo Europa.

Tavo Europe is bringing digital competences to the project and taking responsibility for the development web-site of the project.

Learn more about organisation Tavo Europa

Hey-Hey!

Please meet our partner from Bulgaria - Association WalkTogether

WalkTogether in the project responsible for the developing a Joint Framework for mental health promotion.

Learn more about organisation WalkTogether

Sharing is carting!

SALTO Inclusion & Diversity organises ID Talks: Year on Mental Health.

Worth to join!

ID Talks is a series of 5 stand-alone online events (workshops) of up to 90 minutes each, with inspiring guest speakers, thought-provoking insights, discussion in small groups and Q&A sessions.

https://trainings.salto-youth.net/10948