Recently, the ABC’s for Mental Health workshop was held in Ljubljana, Slovenia, as part of the Moving People – Moving Europe Conference, bringing together over 40 participants from around the world.

The workshop, delivered by DGI (Denmark) provided a unique opportunity to learn about the ABCs methodology and engage in meaningful discussions with a broader audience, extending beyond the consortium of the ABC’s of Mental Health project launched in October 2024. While those of us involved in the project are already familiar with the approach, the workshop offered fresh insights, emphasising that the topic of mental health is increasingly relevant in today’s society.

One of the key takeaways was a recurring concern among participants: namely, the hesitation to address mental health issues in everyday settings. For many, the very term "mental health" can feel intimidating or clinical—something reserved for psychiatrists or psychologists. As a result, people may shy away from engaging in mental health-related programmes or even simple actions, preferring instead to focus on the part of their work they are familiar with. This reluctance to tackle mental health issues, particularly in non-professional settings, is a significant obstacle to prevention efforts.

This is where the ABC’s of Mental Health methodology comes in. Standing for Act-Belong-Commit, the approach provides a simple yet effective framework for promoting mental well-being among the general population. It encourages everyday actions that help to prevent mental health issues before they arise. The methodology emphasises three key pillars:

1. Act: Engage in regular physical activity, hobbies, or social activities that promote positive mental health.
2. Belong: Build and nurture connections with others, whether through family, friends, or community involvement.
3. Commit: Get involved in meaningful activities, whether volunteering, working on personal projects, or contributing to a cause.

These actions are not only limited to mental health professionals – they are accessible to everyone. Whether you're a teacher, a parent, a coach, or simply someone looking to improve your own well-being, the simplicity of the ABC framework makes it easy to integrate into everyday life.

Despite the simplicity of the ABC methodology, a persistent barrier remains: the fear of misunderstanding or miscommunicating the concept of mental health. When people think of "mental health," they often associate it with severe disorders that require specialised knowledge and intervention. The reality is that promoting mental well-being doesn’t require an advanced degree or clinical expertise—it simply involves encouraging positive, everyday actions that support mental health.

The challenge lies in changing the perception of mental health from an "out-of-reach" concept to something that’s part of our daily lives.

Demystifying the concept doesn’t mean diminishing its importance or complexity; rather, it means shifting the focus from something exclusive to something that is - and should be - very inclusive. By doing so, we can create environments where the promotion of mental health is something that everyone can contribute to, in small but meaningful ways.