Training for mental health specialists under the SASTIPE project was held in Sofia

A two-day training for mental health professionals was held in Sofia, organized within the framework of the SASTIPE project. A total of 19 participants, divided into two groups, participated in the training, including psychologists, social workers, pedagogical specialists, educational experts and representatives of organizations working with vulnerable communities and young people.

The main focus of the training was the challenges facing the mental health of Roma students and youth, as well as the role of specialists in the early recognition of psychological difficulties, discrimination, aggression and social exclusion.

During the meetings, topics related to:

• the school environment and hidden forms of discrimination;
• ethnic aggression and bullying;
• early marriages and their impact on mental and emotional development;
• the difficulties that young people face outside of school – in public spaces, institutions and communities;
• the role of educational mediators, school psychologists and local organizations in building trust and a supportive environment.

The training took place in an interactive format with discussions, practical examples and sharing of experience from real field work. The participants

discussed specific case studies from school practice and possible approaches to working with students at risk, as well as the need for closer cooperation between schools, families, mediators and local communities.

Special attention was paid to the need to consider mental health not only as an individual, but also as a social issue related to poverty, segregation, lack of access to services and the feeling of isolation among young people.

The participants emphasized that such trainings are an important step towards building a more supportive and inclusive school environment, in which students can seek help without fear of stigma or discrimination.

The training is part of the activities of the SASTIPE project, aimed at improving access to support and raising awareness on mental health topics among Roma communities and young people.