On 19 September, the South East European Research Centre (SEERC), a partner in the EQUICARES project, took part in the Connected We Stand Festival in Thessaloniki. The event provided an opportunity to engage with members of the public and professionals, introduce them to the EQUICARES project, and open up conversations around access to mental health support.

Through a series of interactive games and hypothetical scenarios, participants explored situations where different barriers could prevent people from seeking or receiving mental health support. The activities prompted discussions about these challenges and encouraged participants to share their perspectives and consider possible solutions together.

The activity encouraged open dialogue among people from different backgrounds, creating an opportunity to share experiences and perspectives on access to mental health support. It also highlighted the importance of working towards support that is more accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of individuals and communities.

SEERC’s participation in the Connected We Stand Festival provided an opportunity to bring the EQUICARES project closer to the community and engage people in conversations about mental health support. The event also offered a valuable opportunity for SEERC, as the Smart Health Lab Leader for Thessaloniki, to promote the Lab and raise awareness of the initiative within the local community.

The discussions and interactions at the event helped connect the project’s aims with people’s everyday experiences and perspectives, reinforcing the importance of listening to communities when working towards more accessible and inclusive mental health support.