DIGI-MENTAL: Empowering Youth Workers with Digital Tools for Mental Wellbeing

The European project DIGI-MENTAL aims to equip youth workers with innovative and inclusive Virtual Reality (VR)-based digital tools to enhance the mental well-being of young people across Europe. DIGI-MENTAL responds to the growing need for modern and engaging methods in youth work, particularly in addressing stress, anxiety, social isolation and emotional regulation through immersive technologies.

Among the main outcomes of the project is the co-development of a set of VR tools tailored to improve emotional health, foster resilience and support social inclusion among youth. These tools will be designed based on identified needs in Iceland, Spain, Belgium, and Italy, and will be integrated into non-formal education practices. Complementing these tools, DIGI-MENTAL also includes an e-learning platform and a “Training of Trainers” programme, ensuring youth workers are fully trained to implement VR in their daily work with young people.

Throughout its implementation, DIGI-MENTAL will foster meaningful collaboration between youth organisations, digital innovators and mental health experts. Through workshops, pilot programmes and strategic dissemination activities, it will promote the integration of cutting-edge technologies in youth work. The use of immersive VR experiences has the potential to transform how young people access mental health support.

By bridging the gap between technology and youth mental health, DIGI-MENTAL positions itself at the forefront of digital transformation in youth work. The project not only supports youth workers in their professional development, but also contributes to building more inclusive, empathetic and resilient communities across Europe.