The project's goal is to improve young people's access to mental health support services and their engagement in enhancing these resources. The four specific objectives include: Strengthening and encouraging young people to support their peers in addressing mental health challenges by establishing informal peer support services. Equipping professionals working with young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to create environments conducive to offering informal mental health services for young people. Promoting the exchange of best practices in youth mental health support services and fostering a policy response better suited to young people's mental health needs. Raising awareness of youth mental health and the importance of localized responses. These objectives aim to equip young people with resources, skills, values, and a sense of commitment—essential for participating in social and civic engagement initiatives. They include awareness of current societal issues and are based on human rights, solidarity, and social inclusion—core EU values. The objectives are therefore fully aligned with the chosen priorities of the Erasmus+ program.
COVID-19 severely impacted young people’s mental health: nearly two out of three in Europe suffer from depression or anxiety, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. School closures, inconsistent quality of online learning, and the employment crisis worsened their situation. Climate change also adds stress. Symptoms of anxiety and depression are more frequent than before the pandemic and higher among young people than in other age groups. Poor mental health can hinder young people's chances of finding a job or succeeding in school after the pandemic. Even though the pandemic has ended, its effects on young people's mental health will persist. There are few adequate responses at the European level, and even fewer specifically target young people. This project aims to improve young people's access to informal mental health services in non-medical settings such as schools, youth organizations, associations, sports centers, and cultural venues. It targets the most vulnerable young people and trains professionals to recognize mental health issues. The project also raises public and policymaker awareness about the importance of young people's mental well-being.