The Art4Health Youth Exchange explored the importance of young people’s mental well-being through art and cultural exchange.

The Art4Health Youth Exchange, organised by Rosto Solidário from 31 August to 7 September, brought together 29 young people from Poland, Italy and Portugal to take part in activities focused on promoting mental health.

For one week, mental well-being was at the heart of a range of initiatives combining health education, the development of practical tools and cultural activities.

The aim was to empower participants to prevent and manage symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression, while also encouraging the creation of peer support networks.

Cultural exchange played a key role, fostering young people’s empowerment and creating a safe and inclusive space for sharing experiences and perspectives.

Among the activities, participants took part in music-based artistic experiences, creative and reflective writing, crafts and drawing, highlighting the potential of art as a tool for self-expression, emotional balance and intercultural connection.

The experiences shared during Art4Health reinforced the idea that art is a powerful resource for promoting mental well-being, capable of breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for connection, trust and solidarity among young people.