We are thrilled to share the success of our recent Erasmus+ Training Course, “A Mental Health Toolkit for Youth Workers,” held for the second time from April 20-29, 2024, at the serene Ananda Gaorii Ashram in Denmark. This immersive training brought together youth workers from across Europe to equip them with the tools and knowledge necessary to support the mental health and well-being of young people.
Holistic Approach to Youth Mental Health
The training course offered a comprehensive approach to youth mental health, integrating diverse methodologies such as mental health first aid, cognitive behavioural therapy, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness. Recognizing that societal and environmental factors contribute significantly to the youth mental health crisis, the program also explored how a nature-based worldview, meaningful community activities, and strong support networks can serve as effective antidotes to mental health issues.
Skills for Prevention and Intervention
The primary focus of the training was on preventive measures to foster mental well-being and resilience among youth. Participants learned essential competencies to promote cognitive, social, and emotional skills, positive values, and a strong sense of self-identity among young individuals. Additionally, the training provided strategies for intervening in distress situations, including fundamental counseling skills like empathic listening and recognizing needs.
Personal Development and Community Engagement
The course emphasized the well-being and resilience of youth workers themselves, encouraging the development of personal protective factors such as social and emotional skills, mindfulness, and self-regulation. Participants explored the impact of nature on holistic development and the importance of community support. A portion of the training was dedicated to nature-based activities designed to empower young people holistically and help them express their emotions.
Networking and Collaboration
The training offered ample opportunities for networking among organizations, fostering mutual empowerment and collaboration among youth workers. Open space sessions allowed participants to share experiences, plan future joint projects, and build a strong network of like-minded professionals dedicated to youth mental health.
Expert Trainers
The course was led by a team of experienced trainers:
- Emilia Ślimko: A psychologist, mindfulness trainer, and cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist.
- Prija Barbara Balan: A social pedagogue and facilitator passionate about social inclusion and well-being through creative and nature-based methods.
- Dada Krsnasevananda: A meditation teacher and monk with extensive experience in promoting well-being through yoga and meditation.
- Didi Ananda Devapriya: Executive president of AMURTEL Romania with vast experience in child protection, education, and emergency response.
Participants and Partners
The training welcomed youth workers from Denmark, Poland, Slovenia, Greece, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Romania, Italy, and Spain. Priority was given to those with a motivation to address the youth mental health crisis, relevant skills or experience, and a commitment to sharing their knowledge within their organizations. Our partners included Ananda Marga Danmark, Osada Mozliwosci Association, Walk Together, Hellas for Us, Tavo Europa, Europalmente, AHORA ONG, Association Nurturing of the Earth and the Spirit, and AMURTEL.
New Website Launch
As an exciting outcome of this training course, we have launched a dedicated website: https://mentalhealth-toolkit.com/. This platform provides valuable resources, tools, and information to support youth workers in promoting mental health and well-being.
Looking Forward
We are grateful for the enthusiasm and dedication of all participants and partners, and we look forward to continuing this important work. By empowering youth workers with the skills and knowledge to support mental health, we are fostering a generation of resilient and confident young people ready to navigate life’s complexities.
Stay tuned for future updates and opportunities to join us in our mission to promote positive mental health and well-being among youth across Europe.
Co-funded by European Union
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