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Unravel Mental Health Care Practice in Youth Work

2022-3-DE04-KA153-YOU-0000973272022Mobility of youth workersfinalized
Countries: DE|ES|PL|AZ|UA|PT|AM|GE · Grant: €58,098
Physical and mental health, well-beingNew learning and teaching methods and approachesQuality and innovation of youth work

Objectives

The project "Unravel Mental Health Care Practice in Youth Work" aimed to address pressing issues that today's youth and youth workers face. The project tried to empower and equip youth workers with the necessary skills, knowledge, and attitudes to effectively address mental well-being and trauma related issues among youth, which recognises the growing concerns over mental health among young individuals. The objectives were multifaceted, focusing on both the individual development of youth workers and the broader impact on their organizations and the youth they serve. Firstly, we aimed to enhance the competences of youth workers in mental health care and trauma-informed practices. This goal was rooted in the understanding that youth workers are often on the front lines, interacting directly with young individuals who may be facing various challenges, including mental health issues and the effects of trauma. By equipping youth workers with a deeper conceptual understanding of these issues and practical tools for intervention, we sought to create a ripple effect, whereby these professionals could foster environments which would nurture and support growth for the youth in their communities. Secondly, the project aimed to develop and practise educational activities that youth workers could use in their practice. Recognising the gap in resources available for youth workers operating in this capacity, we tried to create and practise materials that would support the professional development of youth workers and serve as a direct benefit to the youth. These materials were designed based on the various existing resources that youth workers could tailor their approach to meet the needs of their communities. Thirdly, fostering cooperation and networking among participants and partner organizations was a key objective. We understood that the challenges faced in youth work, particularly concerning mental health and trauma, are complex and multifaceted. No single organization or individual holds all the answers. Therefore, creating spaces for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and partnership building was essential. This approach aimed to enhance the project's impact during its implementation phase, also ensure its sustainability and growth beyond its conclusion. The project also attempted to contribute to the broader discourse on youth mental health and the role of youth work in supporting young individuals. By engaging with various stakeholders, including participating organizations from across Europe and beyond, the project aimed to highlight the critical need for mental health care practices within youth work and advocate for greater support and recognition of this work at the local, national, and international levels.

Project partners (8)