In an era where mental health issues among young people are escalating, the need for innovative and effective support mechanisms has never been more crucial. Recognizing this imperative, the JANUS project emerges as a beacon of hope, aiming to revolutionize the way support is extended to vulnerable young people (VYP) grappling with mental health challenges. At the heart of JANUS's mission is the promotion of Autobiographical Theatre (AT) as a therapeutic methodology, designed to empower young individuals by fostering resilience and enhancing socialization skills amidst the crises they face.
The Core of JANUS: Autobiographical Theatre as Therapy
Autobiographical Theatre, or AT, Domingo Ferrandis' methodology (SOLIS SRLS) stands out as a unique therapeutic approach that encourages individuals to craft and perform stories from their lives. This method is not just about performance; it's a journey towards healing, self-discovery, and empowerment. JANUS believes in the transformative power of AT to address the mental health needs of young people. Through engaging in AT, participants become actors in their own narratives, challenging stereotypes and stigma associated with mental health issues. This process not only aids in diminishing feelings of isolation but also promotes a sense of belonging and acceptance.
JANUS's Strategic Initiatives
To translate its vision into reality, JANUS has laid out a comprehensive plan that includes:
Training of Trainers: Equipping professionals with the skills to facilitate AT workshops, ensuring a high-quality delivery of the program.
Adaptation and Co-creation: Tailoring the AT methodology to fit the cultural and social contexts of Romania and Cyprus, coupled with the development of a JANUS-specific methodology.
Implementation and Local Testing: Rolling out the JANUS methodology in Romania and Cyprus, followed by workshops to test its efficacy in Italy, Romania, and Cyprus.
Public Performances: Organizing autobiographical theatre performances in Romania (2) and Cyprus (1), providing a platform for young people to share their stories.
Digital Outreach: Creating a digital platform, an e-booklet, a series of videos, and hosting a Janus Festival of Autobiographical Theatre in Romania to widen the project's impact.
The Impact: Transforming Lives and Communities
By enabling young people to articulate their experiences through theatre, JANUS aims to build a community where mental health is openly discussed, reducing stigma and fostering a supportive environment. The autobiographical performances serve as powerful tools for awareness, showcasing the resilience and courage of young individuals facing mental health challenges. Furthermore, the project's emphasis on training and methodology adaptation ensures that its benefits are sustainable and can be replicated across different settings.
Moving Forward
The JANUS project is not just an intervention; it's a movement towards changing the narrative around youth mental health. By harnessing the power of autobiographical theatre, JANUS is setting the stage for vulnerable young people to rebuild their lives, offering them a voice and a path to recovery. As this project unfolds, it promises to offer valuable insights into the role of creative therapies in mental health support, potentially shaping future approaches in this critical field.
As we witness the unfolding of this ambitious project, it's clear that JANUS represents a significant step forward in our collective effort to support young people in their mental health journeys. Through creativity, empathy, and innovation, JANUS is lighting a path towards a brighter, more inclusive future for vulnerable youth across the globe.
Project coordinator:
UNIVERSITATEA DE ARTE DIN TARGU MURES (Romania)
Partners:
FUNDATIA PROFESSIONAL (Romania)
SOLIS SRLS (Italy)
SHIPCON LIMASSOL LIMITED (Cyprus)
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