Erasmus+ Study Visit in Jordan: Youth and Mental Health

As part of the Erasmus+ Youth Program, this exceptional study visit brought together youth leaders and workers to raise awareness about critical topics such as mental health, digitalization, and inclusivity. Held in Jordan from December 11 to December 18, 2021, the event took place in culturally and historically rich locations like Amman, Petra, and Wadi Rum, offering participants unforgettable experiences.

Event Details

• Date: December 11-18, 2021
• Locations: Amman, Wadi Rum, Petra
• Organizers: Desert Bloom for Training and Sustainable Development (Jordan) and Jugendzentrum Perg (Austria)
• Theme: Mental health, digitalization, and inclusivity
• Participants: Youth leaders and workers from Austria, Turkey, Tunisia, Palestine, Greece, and other European countries

Activities During the Event

1. Workshops and Presentations

• Mental Health Awareness: Workshops on coping techniques for anxiety, stress, and depression.
• Digital Tools: Effective use of social media and digital platforms to promote mental health awareness.
• Creative Methods: Innovative methodologies for organizing mental health campaigns and activities.

2. Field Visits

• Visits to organizations in Amman focusing on mental health.
• Exploration of historical and cultural sites such as Petra and Wadi Rum.
• Observations of community solidarity initiatives in Jordan.

3. Cultural Interaction

• Cultural Nights: Participants showcased their countries’ traditional foods, music, and stories.
• Local Experiences: Opportunities to explore Jordan’s rich history and culture.

Contributions of the Project

Benefits for Participants

• Professional Development:
  • Participants gained new skills in youth work, particularly in digitalization, creativity, and inclusivity.
  • Experience in organizing mental health awareness campaigns using digital platforms.
  • Enhanced team management and leadership skills through group work.
• Personal Growth:
  • Improved stress and anxiety management techniques, enhancing personal resilience.
  • Development of emotional intelligence and empathy.
  • Gained new perspectives on addressing mental health issues in their own countries.

Impact on Communities

• Creating Awareness:
  • Participants shared their learnings in their local communities, raising awareness about mental health.
  • Established new connections and partnerships with local organizations.
• Initiating New Projects:
  • Built a foundation for future projects under the Erasmus+ program.
  • Inspired participants to start new social solidarity projects in their communities.

International Interaction

• Intercultural Dialogue:
  • Participants engaged deeply with individuals from different cultures, reducing biases and fostering empathy.
  • Created an environment of collaboration and mutual understanding.
• Solidarity and Partnership:
  • Built lasting collaborations and friendships among youth leaders.
  • Developed long-term partnerships for future projects.

Education and Innovative Methods

• Creative Techniques:
  • Participants explored innovative methodologies, such as digital games and social media campaigns, to create impactful mental health initiatives.
  • Gained practical experience in designing creative activities tailored to modern challenges.
• Knowledge Sharing:
  • Created online platforms to disseminate resources on mental health awareness to broader audiences.
  • Established mechanisms for sustained collaboration and resource sharing.

Conclusion

This comprehensive event enhanced participants’ awareness of mental health issues and offered innovative solutions, providing personal and professional growth opportunities. By helping young people discover their potential and inspiring them to create societal impact, this project stands out as a success story within the Erasmus+ program.