In August 2025, young people from Slovakia, Austria, Romania and Spain came together in Skalka, Slovakia for an inspiring international youth exchange titled “Mental Health in a Digital Era.” The exchange gathered 26 young people aged 18–30.
What was it about?
The exchange took place in a mountain setting, with participants living together in the Limba mountain hut, surrounded by forest and nature. The arrival day focused on welcoming the group, introducing the programme and building a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. A short evening meeting helped everyone get to know each other and feel comfortable before starting the week together.
The programme followed a thoughtful structure, gradually moving from group building and awareness to reflection, creativity and applying learning. In the first days, team-building activities and group discussions helped participants build trust and create a shared group agreement based on respect, openness and inclusion.
Exploring Mental Health and Digital Well-Being
Throughout the week, participants explored how digital technologies and social media affect daily life, emotions and relationships. Through guided reflections, mindfulness exercises and open conversations, they discussed topics such as screen time, online pressure, concentration and stress. Young people shared personal experiences and learned practical strategies to find a healthier balance between online and offline life.
Mindfulness practices played a key role, helping participants slow down, reconnect with themselves and become more aware of their habits and emotions.
Learning Through Nature, Creativity and Community Action
Outdoor activities, creative expression and intercultural exchange were central to the youth exchange experience. Reflective walks, yoga sessions and a climbing challenge in the Skalka area encouraged participants to reconnect with nature, strengthen teamwork and build physical and mental resilience. Living together in simple conditions in a mountain hut further fostered adaptability, solidarity and a deeper appreciation for nature and community life.
Creativity played an important role in self-expression and learning. Through theatre, movement, storytelling, role plays and video creation, participants explored emotions, shared personal experiences and stepped outside their comfort zones. Intercultural evenings, including a Spanish dance night and informal gatherings, enriched the programme with cultural diversity and meaningful connections.
The learning continued beyond the exchange itself. Participants acted as multipliers in their home countries by organising local activities, workshops and events that promoted mindfulness, balanced digital habits and reconnection with nature. Through these community actions and online sharing, the project’s message reached a wider audience and created lasting impact at both personal and community levels.
Mental Health in a Digital Era created impact on multiple levels – personal, creative, physical and community-based. Participants gained greater awareness of their digital habits, strengthened emotional resilience, developed self-confidence and learned practical tools to manage stress. They left inspired to live more mindfully, stay connected to nature and promote healthier, more balanced lifestyles.