If mental health problems go unaided, the results can be tragic. In Estonia, suicide is one of the leading causes of death among young people aged 15-29. Research confirms that the majority of those who commit suicide have a diagnosable mental disorder, which shows the importance of early detection, recognition and knowledge of help options. Therefore, the EAÜS Public Health Working Group in cooperation with the Estonian Youth Mental Health Movement, the Estonian Psychology Students' Association and Lahendus.net has developed an interactive lecture for high school students and upper secondary school students. The main goal of our lectures is that no one feels alone with mental health problems.

Two to four young lecturers will give a 75-90 minute lecture on mental health to the class. During the lecture, we involve the listeners with short discussions and small tasks, and we create an environment where students can also talk about their experiences and thoughts if they wish. If possible, there is also a volunteer from the Estonian Youth Mental Health Movement, who talks about his challenge in the field of mental health.

According to the WHO, a quarter of the world's population has mental health problems. Two thirds of them do not seek help. In the lecture, we talk to young people about the signs and symptoms of mental disorders, how and when to seek help, how to maintain mental health and how to communicate with a person who has a mental health problem. We are also talking about myths and stigmas related to this field.

Our lecturers have completed thorough training from the residents of the psychiatry specialty of the University of Tartu Hospital and specialists from Peaasi.ee.

List of possible topics:

1. Introduction. The nature of mental health, related concepts; how to understand that it is a mental health disorder?

2. Mood disorders - depression, bipolar disorder

3. Emotional disorders - anxiety disorders, panic disorder, phobias

4. Eating Disorders - Anorexia, Bulimia, Eating Disorder

5. Self-harm and suicide

6. Seek help, talk about mental health, and maintain mental health

The cost of the service is 50 €. When ordering a lecture outside the city of Tartu, compensation for transport costs is added.

To order a lecture, write to the EAÜS Public Health Working Group: eays.vaimnetervis@gmail.com