ABOUT THE COMMON: HOW TO SUPPORT YOUTH?

Being a parent of a minor or teenager in today's society is a significant challenge due to the complex issues children and parents face. In a context where social, political, and economic conditions often bring uncertainty, parents experience additional pressure in their efforts to provide stability and emotional support for their children.

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Modern challenges such as anxiety, attention disorders, depression, peer violence, and school incidents deeply affect teenagers during their formative years. Young people are increasingly withdrawing or losing interest in previously enjoyable activities, signaling the difficulties they face and the erosion of values that form the foundation of psychological health and happiness. Additionally, many seek refuge in the virtual world, which offers a temporary escape but often disconnects them from reality, social interactions, and personal goals.

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To address ways of supporting youth and their mental health, a panel discussion will be held at Klara i Rosa (15 Petefi Šandor Street) on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at 7 PM..

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Panelists are: Vesna Bojanić, MA in Psychology and Integrative Child Psychotherapist Marina Parežanin, Certified Pedagogue and Activity Leader at the Center for Counseling and Prevention of Behavioral Issues in Children and Youth, Žofia Hulo, Youth Worker, and Nataša Kustudić Nikoletić, President of the Local Parent Council's first convocation (2017/18 and later). Moderator: Elena Čavlin, a student at the Faculty of Political Sciences in Belgrade.

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This discussion aims to foster conversations on collective parenting efforts, mutual support, youth empowerment, and the impact parents and communities have on young people. The goal is to create an open dialogue and a free space for exchanging ideas and finding solutions that could improve the current situation.

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Research shows that families today are more exposed to negative influences than ever before. Some of the additional risks include parents' lack of personal capacity, inadequate behavior models inherited from their families of origin, unemployment, difficulties balancing professional and family life, family alienation, or lack of familial support.

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This event is part of the "Together for an Active Civil Society – ACT" project, supported by the Government of Switzerland and implemented by Helvetas Serbia and Civic Initiatives. ACT aims to build an active civil society where citizens play a greater role in decision-making processes, especially at the local level.