A Journey of Emotions Begins in Madrid: Young People Come Together to Put Mental Health in the Spotlight

The Erasmus+ KA152 Youth Exchange project "Unmasking Emotions" (Project No. 2025-3-ES02-KA152-YOU-000385559), coordinated by Generaciones Saludables España, officially kicked off in Madrid, Spain with its first day of activities. Bringing together young participants from Spain, Türkiye, Italy, Hungary, and Georgia, the project aims to raise awareness of mental health, help young people better understand and express their emotions, and strengthen their emotional resilience.

The opening day focused on creating a safe, inclusive, and trusting learning environment where participants could get to know one another. The programme began with the interactive "Meet at the Clues" activity, where participants introduced themselves through personal clues rather than traditional presentations. This engaging approach encouraged communication, observation, and empathy while helping participants build meaningful first connections.

The group then took part in the "Discovery Route" activity, exploring the hotel and its surroundings through team-based challenges. By completing tasks together, participants not only familiarised themselves with the project environment but also strengthened cooperation, teamwork, and mutual trust from the very beginning of the exchange.

Later in the day, the "Erasmus+ Journey Workshop" introduced participants to the core values of the Erasmus+ Programme, the principles of non-formal education, and the objectives of the project. The session provided a clear overview of the upcoming activities while highlighting the importance of active participation, emotional awareness, and peer learning throughout the mobility.

The first day concluded with Youthpass reflection sessions and the "Star Map" activity, giving participants the opportunity to reflect on their experiences, express their emotions, and share their expectations for the days ahead. These activities marked the beginning of each participant's personal learning journey and encouraged self-awareness from the very start of the project.

Designed to promote mental health awareness among young people, Unmasking Emotions goes beyond providing knowledge. The project creates a supportive environment where participants can openly express their emotions, learn from one another, and build meaningful intercultural friendships. Through creative workshops, psychological first aid activities, art-based methods, and intercultural learning experiences scheduled throughout the week, participants will further develop both personally and socially.

As this inspiring journey begins in Madrid, Unmasking Emotions demonstrates how international cooperation can empower young people, strengthen emotional well-being, and promote the Erasmus+ values of inclusion, solidarity, and active participation across Europe.