1. What motivated you to join this youth exchange “Mission Youth Mental Health”?
What motivated me most to join this exchange was the topic itself and its relevance in today’s society. Mental health affects everyone, yet it is still often avoided or misunderstood. I wanted to take part in a project that encourages open discussions and creates a safe environment where people can share experiences freely. I was also curious to learn how people from other countries perceive mental health and how they address these issues within their own communities. By joining this project, I felt I could both learn from others and contribute my own perspective. Additionally, I was excited about meeting new people, building international connections, and stepping outside of my comfort zone. For me, this exchange represented an opportunity for personal growth while being involved in something meaningful and impactful.
2. What was the most interesting thing you learned during the project? How will you use it?
The most interesting thing I learned was that, despite coming from different countries and cultures, we share many similar challenges related to mental health. Listening to other participants’ stories helped me realize that these struggles are global rather than individual or local. At the same time, I discovered how cultural differences influence the way mental health is discussed and approached. Learning about different coping strategies and solutions gave me new perspectives and made me more open-minded and empathetic. Back home, I want to use this knowledge by encouraging more open conversations about mental health among my friends and within my community. I also plan to apply and share the coping techniques we practiced during the project, believing that understanding and support can make a real difference.
3. Which activity or session did you enjoy the most, and why?
The session I enjoyed the most was the theater play activity. It was very different from traditional discussions and immediately made everyone feel more engaged. I liked how interactive and creative it was, allowing us to learn through action rather than only through conversation. Although it pushed me out of my comfort zone, it did so in a fun and supportive way. I also enjoyed seeing how each group expressed their ideas differently, highlighting the creativity and diversity within the group. This activity stood out because it combined learning, teamwork, and laughter. It reminded me that education does not always have to be serious to be effective—sometimes the most valuable lessons come through play and experimentation.
4. How will you use the knowledge and skills from this project in your work back home?
One of the most important skills I gained from this project is improved communication, especially in English. Speaking daily with people from different backgrounds helped me become more confident and less afraid of making mistakes. I also learned to be a better listener and to truly pay attention to others’ perspectives. These skills will be useful not only in my education and future career, but also in everyday life. Another key lesson was the importance of teamwork and mutual support. I want to use what I learned to promote open and honest conversations about mental health among my peers and to encourage empathy and understanding in daily interactions. This project provided me with tools that will support my personal and social development long after it ends.
5. If you could describe this experience in three words, what would they be?
Connection – Communication – Friendship
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
