On World Mental Health Day, CCIS reaffirms the importance of placing young people’s mental health and well-being at the centre of public policy and decision-making.

Within the framework of the Youth Observer Model – A Cross Regional Predictive Model for Youth Policy Shaping, members of the CCIS Youth Observers network have developed a policy paper exploring the challenges related to youth mental health and proposing evidence-based recommendations to strengthen emotional well-being and improve access to support services for young people.

The recommendations emphasize the need for a coordinated approach involving public institutions, educational institutions, local communities, civil society organizations, and young people themselves. Creating environments where young people feel heard, supported, and empowered is essential for building healthier and more resilient communities.

On this World Mental Health Day, CCIS joins the global call to prioritize mental health and to promote policies that ensure every young person has access to the support, opportunities, and services they need to thrive.

Because mental health is not only a health issue—it is a fundamental component of inclusive and sustainable development.

The Youth Observer Model – “A Cross Regional Predictive Model for Youth Policy Shaping – Youth Observers (Y-Os)” is an Erasmus+ Capacity Building in the Field of Youth project, co-funded by the European Union and implemented by Qendra Mesdheu, CCIS Albania, Center for Change Management (CCM), SCiDEV, INDEP, and Eurelations GEIE.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and participants and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union, the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA), or the project partners. Neither the European Union, EACEA, nor the project partners can be held responsible for the content of this publication.