„Inclusive Minds: Migrant Women’s Mental Health“ is an initiative supported by the Erasmus+ Programme, aimed at enriching the lives of migrant women aged 40 to 60 across Europe. Through creative tools like board games and by organizing workshops and community events, the initiative seeks to improve mental health and foster connections, building bridges of understanding and inclusion.
Background
Migrant women, particularly those who are middle-aged or older, face significant challenges upon arriving in Europe. These challenges include limited language proficiency, weaker social networks, and heavy childcare and family responsibilities. They often struggle with communication, social integration, and the overwhelming demands of their new environment. Despite often having experienced trauma, their well-being is frequently overlooked, making mental health support essential for their inclusion. Addressing these needs through accessible and informal means is crucial for their successful integration into European society.
Objectives
The project aims to make a real difference in the lives of migrant women by addressing the social, cultural, and psychological factors that contribute to their well-being. Through interactive, innovative, and inclusive approaches, the project strives to empower women, promote social inclusion, and foster a sense of belonging within their new communities. This is not just a project but a commitment to improving these women’s lives and positively impacting European society.
🎯 Enhance Well-being: Improving mental health services and support for migrant women.
🤝 Promote Social Inclusion: Facilitating integration and acceptance within new communities.
🗣️ Facilitate Exchanges: Encouraging meaningful dialogues between migrant and local women.
📢 Inform Stakeholders: Raising awareness among service providers and the public about the importance of inclusion and mental health.
Empowering Through Engagement
One of our key activities is the creation of an interactive board game. These interactive tools and activities, such as the board game, are designed to promote learning about personal well-being and coping strategies in a fun and engaging way. The local learning and gaming events are expected to support the target group in re-entering society, exchanging on an intercultural level, and taking care of their mental health. These events bring together migrant and local women for cultural exchange and mutual learning.
Target Group
The project primarily targets migrant women aged 40 to 60 from third countries seeking homes in Europe. While there are no geographical restrictions, there is a particular emphasis on engaging with the Arab community due to established networks. However, women from other regions, such as Iran, Ukraine, Afghanistan, and beyond, are equally welcomed. This demographic, mainly middle-aged and older migrant women, is often challenging to reach, making it difficult for policymakers and service providers to address their needs effectively. These women often face significant barriers, including language and communication challenges, fear and mistrust of service providers, and experiences of discrimination based on age, gender, and migration history.
The project is implemented by Fremde werden Freunde (Austria), Internationella Kvinnoföreningen (Sweden), and Dracon Rules Design Studio (Greece).
Disclaimer:
Funded by the European Union. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
