ReConnect: Hope and Healing After Trauma KA152

The Impact of Recent Global and Regional Events on Youth Mental Health in Europe
In recent years, global and regional events in Europe have profoundly impacted young people's mental health, causing significant trauma in their lives. The COVID-19 crisis exposed young people to prolonged social isolation, uncertainty, and anxiety, weakening their sense of connection and mental resilience. The war in Ukraine not only posed a physical threat but also heightened feelings of insecurity and fears for the future. Similarly, frequent natural disasters in Europe have deepened feelings of loss and further harmed young people's mental well-being.

On an individual level, trauma results from events that threaten a person's physical and psychological integrity, leaving a profound impact. Such traumas can sever a person’s ties to the past, much like a sudden blow, while overshadowing their hopes for the future. Events such as separation, job loss, domestic violence, war, and economic crises can lead to both individual and societal trauma. Studies across Europe have notably observed a significant rise in cases of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among young people aged 18–30 in recent years.

Mental Health Europe (MHE) highlights that young people are particularly vulnerable when it comes to mental health. The organization states that one in five young people experiences mental health problems annually, a situation exacerbated by the effects of COVID-19. They emphasize the urgent need for a stronger support system to help young people cope with these challenges.

The European Commission also underscores the widespread nature of mental health problems across Europe, noting that even before the pandemic, one in six people experienced mental health issues. The pandemic has only worsened this situation. The Commission calls for a more comprehensive approach and enhanced support to help young people address these mental health challenges.

Each organization will send 5 participant
Project will take place in Adana\Türkiye
Project duration will be 7 days (2 days are travelling)