Erasmus+ youth exchange “Be Kind To Your Mind” took place in Msida, Malta on 25th November – 3rd of December, 2021. The mobility gathered 36 participants coming from Lithuania, Spain, Malta, Greece, Bulgaria and Turkey. The core goal of the current project was to increase knowledge about mental health between youngsters and the general public.
INSPIRATION OF THE PROJECT
Mental health plays an important role in everyone’s life. A mentally healthy person works more productively, and is capable of contributing more to his/her surroundings. It is clear that mental disorders could lead to serious problems and wasted human potential.
A mental disorder is a health condition involving changes in thinking, emotions or behaviours (e.g. depression). According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than a quarter of the European adult population has experienced at least one mental disorder during the past year, e.g. depression or anxiety. Yet, only a fraction of them sought professional help. Mental disorders have a significant impact, which consequences affect not only the individual, but also the economic sector. Thus, it is important to bring the issues to light and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT
PROJECT’S ACTIVITIES
SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN
SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN ON OUR INSTAGRAM: BKYM Social Media Campaign
DISSEMINATION
PUBLIC ACTIVITY IN VALLETTA
PROJECT’S IMPACT
“Be Kind To Your Mind” was a success. The participants will no longer have a stigma (prejudicial attitude towards individuals with mental health problems) connected with mental health and mental disorders. Thus, they will be more understanding of people facing mental disorders. Moreover, the participants are going to live more mentally healthy lifestyles, as well as advise their peers on how to
do that.
Furthermore, the youngsters are going to be able to cope themselves and be able to talk to their peers, family and friends and to help them to cope with stress, anxiety and/or other mental disorders. Finally, the participants will know what organizations, institutions to contact in case help is needed and they will also have fewer qualms/fear to do that.
PROJECT’S SCHEDULE, ACTIVITIES AND MATERIAL
