International Cooperation Against Technology Addiction: "Don't Get Caught in The Cycle of Addiction!" Project Brings Youth Workers Together

The Erasmus+ Mobility of Youth Workers project "Don't Get Caught in The Cycle of Addiction!" (2023-3-ES02-KA153-YOU-000179486), coordinated by Generaciones Saludables España, was held in Gijón, Spain, from 27 July to 2 August 2024. The project brought together youth workers from Spain, Türkiye, Latvia, Romania, Bulgaria, Italy, Poland, the Czech Republic, Portugal, and Hungary to exchange knowledge, experiences, and good practices in tackling technology addiction.

As digital technologies have become an essential part of everyday life, technology addiction has emerged as a growing challenge, particularly among young people. Excessive screen time and unhealthy digital habits can negatively affect mental well-being, social relationships, productivity, and overall quality of life. The "Don't Get Caught in The Cycle of Addiction!" project was developed to address these challenges through international cooperation and non-formal education.

The project's main objective was to strengthen the capacity of youth workers by increasing their awareness of technology addiction and equipping them with practical tools, innovative methods, and educational approaches that they can use in their work with young people. Throughout the project, participants explored effective strategies for promoting responsible technology use while exchanging successful practices from their respective countries.

Another key aim of the project was to encourage healthier digital habits by developing educational resources, promoting digital balance, raising public awareness about the risks of technology addiction, and ensuring that the project's outcomes remain sustainable beyond the mobility. By sharing knowledge and collaborating across borders, participants contributed to creating long-term solutions that can be implemented within their local communities.

Supported by the Erasmus+ Programme, "Don't Get Caught in The Cycle of Addiction!" represents an important step toward empowering youth workers to help young people build a healthier relationship with technology. Through international cooperation, the project promotes digital well-being, social engagement, and a more balanced approach to technology in today's increasingly connected world.