The HÉTFA Research Institute is a member of the MEET project team (MEET – Mental Well-Being in Education for Disadvantaged Youth), supported by the Interreg Danube Region Programme. Led by ZSI (Zentrum für Soziale Innovation), the project focuses on practices and policy opportunities that support young people’s mental health in both informal and formal education.
The second lab organized with the involvement of the Együttható Association on February 18, 2025, focused on the mental well-being of young people. The event brought together not only young participants but also experienced professionals from the social and mental health sectors, as well as academia, who have extensive experience in addressing mental health challenges.
The workshop provided a space for identifying key issues through brainstorming. Among the challenges discussed, particular attention was given to loneliness, difficulties in forming connections, depression, and the increasing prevalence of self-esteem issues. Young people are under intense pressure to perform and navigate their identity, exacerbating anxiety and self-confidence problems. Additionally, young people with disabilities continue to face limited social acceptance and accessibility, often lacking advocacy and adequate support.
Beyond identifying challenges, the workshop also focused on developing potential solutions. Participants emphasized the importance of closer collaboration among professionals and the sharing of best practices to improve young people’s mental well-being.
