Youth in the COVID-19 era are reporting rising levels of depression, anxiety and feelings of isolation and loneliness. Heightened levels of stress and substance use amongst the young people have been noted as well. That is why mental health in digital environments is a crucial topic to be addressed throughout Europe.

It is critical to intervene early and ensure a cohesive, holistic and rigorous policy action to transform the narrative.

The seminar is a one-day activity jointly organised by the Council of Europe and EYCA, in the framework of the Partial Agreement on Youth Mobility through the Youth Card. The event is generously hosted by the Slovenian Youth Agency (SLOAM), and the International Youth Health Organisation (YHO). 

When?

18 October 2021

Where?

Online (Ljubljana, Slovenia) 

Aims of the Seminar 

• Ensure mental health is being promoted as a policy priority at national and European levels, respectively that youth work adapts and includes services to identify, guide and support young people with mental health challenges;

• Offer the space for professionals and young people to have a coordinated approach on this topic and make recommendations for policy makers;

• Identify how the European Youth Card infrastructure and resources can be used to raise awareness and destigmatise mental health issues. The format is an interactive on-line seminar, bringing together policy makers, experts in the youth mental health issues, civil society representatives and EYCA members. At the end of the seminar, participants will:

• Have a better understanding on the trends in mental health illnesses faced by young people;

• Have a better understanding on how and why they can mainstream mental health as a topic for youth policies;

• Use the European Youth Card as a tool to reach out to youth and provide them with support services.

Profile of the participants

This seminar is open to participants with expertise in youth affairs/youth mobility, youth work and mental health:

• Governmental representatives,

• EYCA member organisations,

• Researchers in youth policies, particularly in mental health,

• Youth workers/service-providers,

• Youth card holders

How to apply?

Please send your Application Form (in Word format) to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by 12 October 2021.

All selected applicants will be notified by 14 October, 2021. 

More information

Read the Concept Note and Provisional Programme