Insights from the Erasmus Training Course on Youth Mental Health
Insights from the Erasmus Training Course on Youth Mental Health
What Shapes Somebody’s Life?
In the quest to understand youth mental health, the Erasmus training course began with a profound exploration of life’s influencers — genes, personality, family, and the transformative power of our thoughts, echoing Dada’s wisdom. I will not forget what his exact words were “We have the capacity to change ourselves. We become what we think. So, choose wisely what you want to become and remember that in order to change we have to forget what we think now”.
Stress: A Nuanced Continuum
Rather than demonizing stress, the course introduced stress as a continuum crucial for motivation. The stress bucket metaphor explained how certain activities fill this metaphorical bucket, and when it overflows, mental health issues may arise. The discussion also unveiled positive, tolerable, and toxic stress, shedding light on ancient survival mechanisms misapplied in the modern world.
Building Resilience: A Personal and Collective Endeavor
Resilience, the ability to overcome adversity, emerged as a central theme. Practical strategies, from exploring spirituality to adopting systems of emotional regulation, were shared. The interconnected threat, drive, and soothing systems, coupled with the 444 breathing method, became essential tools in the resilience-building toolkit.
Understanding Mood Disorders: Unraveling the Thinking-Feeling-Behavior Connection
Dissecting mood disorders, the course identified unhealthy thinking patterns and introduced exercises to challenge and reframe these thoughts. Participants learned to manage stress by understanding the thinking-emotion-behavior cycle, fostering healthier mental habits.
Exploring Depression: Beyond Persistent Sadness
Demystifying depression, the course distinguished between mood and feelings. Various mood disorders, including PMS, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder, were explored.
Addictions: Beyond Substance Use
The exploration of addictions broadened perspectives beyond substance use. The Rat Park experiment highlighted the impact of social environments on addiction, emphasizing the role of community. Prevalent in young people, both chemical and behavioral addictions were discussed, accompanied by role-playing exercises in small groups.
Practicing Active Listening: A Vital Skill in Mental Health Support
The importance of active listening in mental health support was emphasized. Participants honed their ability to engage in meaningful conversations, avoiding judgment and refraining from offering solutions.
First Aid for the Individual: Coping Strategies for Stressful Situations
First aid for the individual took center stage, focusing on practical strategies to manage stress in the moment and prevent its accumulation. Techniques included naming the situation, shifting attention, and engaging the senses.
Yoga and Meditation: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Minds
Integrating ancient practices, yoga, and meditation into discussions proved transformative. These practices, often associated with physical well-being, emerged as powerful tools for cultivating mental resilience and inner harmony.
Empowered for Change
As the Erasmus training course concluded, the collective notes and shared experiences became a treasure trove of insights. From understanding the intricacies of stress to building resilience, navigating mood disorders, and embracing ancient practices, participants left with a renewed commitment to championing youth mental health. The Erasmus training course was not just a chapter — it was a catalyst for personal and collective change in the realm of youth mental well-being.
