MEET Study Visit in Budapest: Exploring Local Practices in Youth Mental Health

Organised by Együttható Egyesület and Hétfa, Budapest, 16. - 17. 6. 2025

From June 16–17, 2025, Budapest, Hungary, hosted the MEET project partners for a two-day study visit filled with learning, knowledge exchange, and inspiration. Organized by the Együttható Association and the Hétfa Research Institute, the event provided valuable insights into inclusive practices and cross-sectoral collaboration to promote youth mental well-being.

Day 1 Highlights:

The visit began with an in-depth introduction to the Down Foundation, where participants learned about its supported living facilities and employment services for people with disabilities. The group then explored the Rácz Gyöngyi Community Centre, a hub for Roma cultural heritage and educational support. The group was warmly welcomed bygroup the Együttható Community House, followed by engaging presentations from Eurodesk Hungary partner organisations, including Támaszpont, Magammal Viszem Foundation, FECSKE, Játszoda, and H52 Youth Office. These organisations showcased innovative, youth-centred approaches to empowerment and international mobility.

Day 2 Focus:

The second day took place at Európa Pont, starting with a closed MEET consortium project sessionThere were presentations on updates followed by brainstorming and evaluation discussions. In the afternoon, a public conference brought together experts to discuss mental health challenges among young people.

Keynote speakers included:

Eszter Sándor (Eurofound) on youth mental health trends in the EU,
Katalin Borbáth, PhD (ELTE PPK) on the role of school psychologists,
Krisztina Zsiday (Salva Vita Foundation) on inclusive support for youth with disabilities.

The roundtable discussion addressed urgent issues, such as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) youth, systemic inequalities, and the potential of cross-sectoral cooperation. Participants included Regina Karakas, a qualified psychiatric nurse, Dr. Noémi Loncsák, sociologist, and Elemér Szentpétery, youth worker. The study visit to Budapest ended with renewed energy, collaborative spirit, and new ideas to further strengthen mental health support systems across the Danube Region.