Project Overview
Project Reference: 2024-1-LV02-KA152-YOU-000233793
Status: Completed
Duration: June 7, 2024 – January 6, 2025
EU Grant: €23,601
Programme: Erasmus+
Action Type: Mobility of Young People
Countries Involved: Latvia, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Estonia
Background
Young people today face many emotional and social challenges during their transition from childhood to adulthood. Issues such as stress, low self-esteem, and anxiety can lead to serious mental health problems. According to the World Health Organization, mental well-being is essential for leading a healthy and productive life. Poor mental health can cause isolation, academic failure, and social exclusion. That is why it is important to talk about mental health and help young people build tools to support their well-being.
Objectives
The goal of this project was to create a safe and open space for young people to learn about mental health and well-being. Participants shared their experiences, explored the challenges youth face in different countries, and learned how to manage emotions and stress. The project promoted personal development, self-care, cultural understanding, and international friendship. It also introduced participants to Erasmus+ as a tool for growth and exchange, while helping them gain key skills recognised through Youthpass certification.
Implementation
The core activity was a youth exchange that took place in Latvia from August 11 to 18, 2024. The programme brought together 31 participants, including team leaders, from five countries. The young people were aged 16–23 and selected based on their interest in the topic of well-being. The programme used non-formal education methods such as group discussions, role plays, creative tasks, and sessions with inspiring speakers. Participants learned in a supportive and inclusive environment where all voices were valued.
Key Activities
The youth exchange programme was designed around four key areas of well-being: emotional, physical, social, and professional. Activities included icebreakers, discussions about emotional intelligence, healthy habits, teamwork, and conflict resolution. Participants explored how to build healthy relationships and how to stay mentally strong in daily life. The programme also included evening activities to encourage cultural sharing and deeper friendships. A special focus was placed on self-reflection and follow-up planning for participants to use their learning at home.
Results
Through this project, young people developed a stronger understanding of mental health and the importance of self-care. They gained practical tools and methods to improve their own well-being and support their peers. Participants also learned about new cultures, improved their language skills, and built strong intercultural connections. Many discovered new opportunities through Erasmus+ and felt motivated to join future projects. Each participant also completed a Youthpass to recognise their learning journey.
Impact
The project created positive change both during and after the exchange. Participants shared their experiences with others at home, raising awareness about youth well-being in their communities. They felt more confident, active, and connected. The organisations involved benefited from new ideas and stronger youth groups. In the long term, the project supports inclusion, tolerance, and mental health at the local and European level. It also helped build a network of young people ready to take part in future initiatives for social good.
