The EQUICARES Smart Health Labs (SHLs) 3^rd warm-up event along with the co-creation workshop held in Pavlikeni on 17 June 2026 and in Strazhitsa on 30 June 2026, bringing together community representatives, educational mediators, psychologists, school staff, local specialists, municipal representatives and other stakeholders to shape locally relevant and accessible mental health support solutions. Organised by AMALIPE, they focused on the development of the Bulgarian SHLs, locally presented as “Meetings and Support”.

Held at Primary School “Bacho Kiro” in Pavlikeni and in Strazhitsa municipality, the sessions aimed to ensure that the future SHLs respond to the realities, needs and expectations of the local communities they are designed to serve. Through interactive discussions, practical case work and the sharing of local experiences, participants explored existing barriers to mental health support, identified community resources and contributed ideas for creating trusted spaces for dialogue, information, referral and early support.

The discussions revealed several common challenges that prevent people from seeking help, including stigma, fear of judgement, lack of information, mistrust towards institutions, concerns about confidentiality and limited access to specialists. Participants also highlighted the need for clear and accessible information about mental health and the different forms of support available, as many people remain uncertain about where to seek help and what role different professionals can play.

In Pavlikeni, the conversation focused strongly on stigma and the widespread perception that mental health support is linked mainly to psychiatric care. Participants stressed the importance of promoting a broader understanding of support options, including counselling, mediation and psychological assistance. The workshop also highlighted that men often experience emotional and psychological difficulties but may be reluctant to seek support because of social expectations. Discussions further emphasised that while relatives, neighbours and acquaintances can offer valuable support, referral to qualified professionals is often necessary.

In Strazhitsa, participants explored the challenges of accessing support in smaller towns and settlements. While local services and professionals are available, many people continue to believe that support can only be found in larger urban centres. At the same time, concerns about discretion and confidentiality emerged as important factors influencing whether individuals feel comfortable seeking help. Participants agreed that trust, respectful communication and better information about available services are essential for improving access to support.

Across both sessions, participants identified schools, mediators, psychologists, healthcare professionals, municipal representatives and trusted community figures as important first points of contact for individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, family difficulties or other emotional challenges. They also proposed practical ideas for future SHL activities, including meetings with parents and young people, awareness-raising initiatives, stronger involvement of psychologists and mediators, and closer cooperation between communities, schools and local institutions.

The sessions demonstrated the value of involving local communities directly in the design of the Smart Health Labs. The insights and recommendations collected will guide the next stages of development of the Bulgarian SHLs, helping to create community-based, accessible and trusted spaces where mental health can be discussed openly and support can be accessed without fear of stigma or judgement.