The aim is to promote the well-being of young people and strengthen the community protection network in their environment. The project is aimed at young people aged 14 to 25 from Arakaldo, Arrankudiaga-Zollo, Arrigorriaga, Etxebarri, Galdakao, Orozko, Ugao-Miraballes, Orduña, Zaratamo, and Zeberio.
In recent years, mental health problems, emotional distress, and involuntary loneliness have notably increased among young people. To address this situation, the Gazteak Saretzen project combines prevention, early detection, and emotional support.
It will be developed by a professional team with experience in socio-educational intervention, community work, and social communication. The intervention will take place in spaces where young people's daily lives unfold: schools, youth centers (gaztegunes), sports and cultural venues, streets, and local establishments, among others. The goal is to be close to young people, collaborate with the surrounding agents, and form community networks that allow for timely identification of support needs.
To this end, a resource map will be created in each locality, and community referents (educators, teachers, coaches, families...) in direct contact with young people will be identified to act as "community antennas." These individuals will be sensitized and, where appropriate, trained on the subject to create a network in each town sensitive to the emotional well-being of young people.
Taking into account the situation and needs of each young person, active listening and close support will be offered, and when necessary, they will be helped to find and access the most suitable resource for each individual. Throughout the process, confidentiality, emotional well-being, and a trusting relationship with the young person will be key. Additionally, peer support groups will be organized to alleviate feelings of loneliness and strengthen bonds among young people.
The project will have its own communication and awareness campaign on channels frequented by young people: Instagram, TikTok, and the web, among others. The campaign aims to break stigmas surrounding emotional distress and unwanted loneliness, discuss these topics naturally, and encourage seeking help when needed. Messages and audiovisual pieces will be created and tested with young people from different towns, centering their words and experiences.
Through this initiative, the Provincial Council of Bizkaia, the Mancomunidad Nerbioi-Ibaizabal, and the Galdakao City Council aim to promote prevention and community involvement in favor of young people's emotional well-being, so they feel heard, understood, and supported in their environment.
