In challenging times like these, there is always an opportunity to create change that will inspire a better future. History reminds us that in turbulent times, although at the cost of many victims and deep traumatic experiences, positive solutions are often born. This Congress is a reflection of that hope and awareness of the need for essential changes in the quality of communication and relationships, starting from the earliest stages of life, as a necessary prerequisite for healthy growth and development both on an individual and global level.
Aligned with the action plan of the World Health Organisation until 2030, UNICEF’s strategy until 2025, and the UN’s sustainable development goals, the 3rd THINK ABOUT YOUyh Congress is dedicated to promoting preventive and therapeutic approaches for children and young people.
The focus of the Congress lies on the reflection of communication and relationships on health, the promotion of innovative therapeutic approaches, and sustainable strategies, in order to preserve and improve the health and well-being of children and young people, and thus society as a whole.
In cooperation with leading experts, we will focus on the development of innovative and integrative therapeutic approaches, and global preventive plans and integrative therapeutic approaches.
The goals of the congress are:
- Create a space for promoting professional networking and exchange of experiences among experts from the health, educational, social, legal sectors and related disciplines;
- Actively involve young people: we want to highlight the importance of involving young people in our activities, convinced that their active participation is necessary for the development of more efficient approaches to mental health protection. Therefore, at this year’s Congress, their voice will be an integral part of congress activities;
- Provide space for the presentation of innovative therapeutic approaches based on scientific evidence and ethical principles.
- Support the development of new strategies that are in line with global guidelines for protecting the mental health of children and young people;
Inspired by the International Declaration on Youth Mental Health (#IAYMH) and the insights gained from qualitative research with adolescents, conducted as part of the project “Interdisciplinary Network of Experts ‘Here&Now’: Care about Adolescent Girls,” BHIDAPA collaborates with UNICEF, and with the support of relevant ministries in Bosnia and Herzegovina, we engage in the promotion of the quality of preventive activities. In addition, we strive to provide affordable services for young people, which are fully adapted to their needs.
Mission and Vision of the 3rd THINK ABOUT YOUth Congress
Our goal is to establish a society that prioritises the mental health and well-being of children, youth, and families, forming a supportive and fulfilling environment for all. To achieve this, the Congress mission to provide a platform where experts from various disciplines and regions can come together to research, exchange ideas, and delve into essential topics regarding the mental health of children, young people, and their families.
Furthermore, we are committed to making a lasting difference in improving the mental health and well-being of children, young people, and families. Through collaboration and the mobilisation of necessary resources, we anticipate that plenary lectures, round tables, workshops, and panel presentations will spark dialogue and offer fresh perspectives on the quality of communication and relationships.
Our desire is to create understanding and care together, where the exchange of ideas and knowledge contributes to building a safer world for every child.
Join us in creating a world that values and protects the mental health and well-being of our children and young people, empowering them to be active participants in their communities and society.
About BHIDAPA
BHIDAPA is a non-profit association dedicated to improving the mental health of children, young people, and their families. Founded with the mission to promote knowledge and skills in the field of child and adolescent psychotherapy and counselling, BHIDAPA focuses on the education of professionals, support for children, youth, and families, and the development and implementation of innovative approaches in the treatment and prevention of mental health difficulties. As a European Accredited Psychotherapy Training Institute and holder of European accreditation for psychotherapy of children and adolescents in Bosnia and Herzegovina, BHIDAPA promotes the education of experts in the field of integrative psychotherapy of children, youth, and adults in accordance with European standards. It collaborates with domestic and international partners, including leading educational, social, and health centres, organisations, associations, institutions, and experts, to ensure the latest scientific achievements and practices that contribute to a better understanding and treatment of mental health challenges. Through its activities, BHIDAPA strives to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all children and youth, promoting approaches based on children’s rights and their best interests.
In line with BHIDAPA’s vision, the THINK ABOUT YOUth Congress symbolises our commitment to strengthening an interdisciplinary network of experts aimed at promoting strategies to improve children’s health, education, and protection, and empowering young people as active participants in their communities, promoting a healthier society for all.
The congress is organised at the initiative of BHIDAPA in cooperation with the Federal Ministry of Health, reaffirming our shared dedication to enhancing the mental health and well-being of children, young people, and their families.