1. What motivated you to join this youth exchange “Mission Youth Mental Health”?
I joined the Mission Youth Mental Health exchange because I am deeply interested in improving the well-being of young people and encouraging more open conversations around mental health. As young people, we face many challenges such as stigma, lack of understanding, and limited access to appropriate support and resources.
Through this programme, I wanted to connect with others who share the same passion, learn from their experiences, and collaborate on finding new ways to address these challenges. My goal was to gain knowledge and practical ideas that I could bring back to my community in order to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and help build stronger support systems. I believe that by working together, we can face mental health challenges with greater understanding, resilience, and solidarity.
2. What was the most interesting thing you learned during the project? How will you use it?
The most interesting thing I learned during the project was how the PERMA model of positive psychology can be used to support and improve youth mental health. I discovered how focusing on Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Achievement helps build well-being and resilience, instead of only addressing mental health problems when they arise.
I plan to use this knowledge by developing activities and initiatives in my community that promote these five elements. For example, I would like to encourage positive peer connections, organize engaging group activities, and support young people in setting meaningful and achievable goals. By applying the PERMA approach, I hope to shift the focus toward creating a supportive environment where young people can grow, thrive, and feel emotionally strong.
3. Which activity or session did you enjoy the most, and why?
The activity I enjoyed the most was learning about the PERMA model and spending time reflecting on my own well-being. This session helped me clearly identify my strengths as well as areas where I can improve. The pair discussion that followed was especially meaningful, as it allowed us to share personal insights and learn from one another. This combination of self-reflection and exchange made the session both personal and collaborative, connecting theory directly to real-life experiences.
4. How will you use the knowledge and skills from this project in your work back home?
I will use the knowledge and skills gained from this project to actively support youth mental health in my community. By applying the PERMA model, I aim to create activities that foster positive emotions, strong relationships, personal meaning, and a sense of achievement. I also want to encourage open conversations about mental health and help reduce stigma, so that young people feel safe, supported, and empowered to take care of their mental well-being.
5. If you could describe this experience in three words, what would they be?
Connection – Self-care – Knowledge
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.
