SMART Minds - Mental Health Youth Guide

Aims of the tool

The main aim of the Mental Health Youth Guide is to increase young people's awareness of mental health and emotional well-being and to encourage open conversations, empathy and help-seeking.

The guide aims to:
- provide young people with accessible information about mental health and common mental health challenges;
- challenge myths and stereotypes surrounding mental health;
- introduce simple coping and well-being techniques;
- encourage self-reflection, emotional awareness and healthy habits;
- create a supportive space where young people can reflect on their experiences and emotions;
- provide a practical resource that can be used by young people and youth workers in non-formal education activities.

Description of the tool

Mental Health Youth Guide is an educational resource created by young people for young people during the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange “SMART Minds – Empowering Youth for Mental Well-being”, held in Predeal, Romania, from 14 to 20 July 2026.

The guide brings together knowledge, reflections and practical tools explored during the project. It addresses mental health in an accessible and youth-friendly way and encourages young people to better understand their emotions, challenge stereotypes and develop healthy habits that can support their well-being.

The guide includes six main chapters covering key mental health concepts, common mental health challenges, myths and stereotypes, coping strategies, well-being techniques, and journaling and guided self-reflection. It also includes practical reflection questions and a selection of helpful resources for young people.

The resource can be read individually or used by youth workers, trainers and educators as supporting material during non-formal education activities, group discussions, reflection sessions and workshops related to mental health and well-being.

The guide was developed as part of the learning and creative process of the SMART Minds Youth Exchange, bringing together perspectives and experiences of young people from different European countries.