We are proud to present Mental Health Academy, one of the winning Bulgarian initiatives under the Get On the Action Train (GOAT) project. This weekend, on 3–4 May, the team will deliver an intensive two-day training programme in Sofia, bringing together 30+ young professionals and enthusiasts working with people in a meaningful learning experience focused on mental health, resilience, and community support.
The programme will help participants strengthen resilience and mental health care skills, explore approaches for working with people in vulnerable situations, and develop strategies for responding to challenging cases. It will also place emphasis on leadership and advocacy in the field of mental health, encouraging young people to become active supporters of healthier and more inclusive communities.
A key part of the academy is its broader perspective on mental health. Beyond individual responsibility, participants will reflect on the wider systemic factors that shape wellbeing, including gender, social status, and cultural context. They will also be introduced to Mental Health First Aid approaches, learning how to recognise signs of distress, provide initial support, and guide people towards professional help.
More than a training event, Mental Health Academy represents a youth-led movement that gives young people the confidence, knowledge, and direction to become agents of change. Participants will receive a Mental Health Toolkit that they can use in future trainings, campaigns, and local initiatives, helping extend the impact beyond the event itself.
The wider GOAT competition supports youth teams aged 18–30, working in teams of 2 to 10 people, with mentoring and funding of up to EUR 10,000 to implement initiatives linked to the European Youth Goals, including Mental Health & Wellbeing.
We are inspired to see such meaningful youth-led action happening in Bulgaria and look forward to the positive impact this initiative will create.