The Erasmus+ training course brought 30 youth workers, trainers, youth leaders and mentors from Austria, Croatia, Germany, Italy, Serbia and Slovenia to Split, Croatia. Its goal was to develop the competences needed to support young people’s social and emotional learning through experiential activities and a positive approach to mental health.
Participants explored mental health as a multidimensional topic, the realities and stigma young people may face, and the role of youth work in building protective factors and wellbeing. Practical work focused on self-awareness, emotional self-regulation, empathic communication, supportive relationships and the personal and professional boundaries of a youth worker.
The programme used non-formal education throughout: small-group work, reflection, role play, simulations, creative presentation and intercultural learning. The result was a stronger toolkit for designing safe, encouraging learning environments where young people can build confidence, relationships and emotional skills.