The CONFIDENT – Combating the Negative Influence of Social Media on Mental Health project is implemented under Erasmus+ Programme, KA220-YOU – Cooperation partnerships in youth and was designed to address the harmful effects of social media on young people’s self-image by providing a support system through youth work and non-formal education. The project aimed to raise awareness about the impact of social media on mental health, understand the correlation between online platforms and youth well-being, and train youth educators to combat these negative effects. Additionally, it promoted healthier online communication strategies and created a digital space where young people could learn, share experiences, and access resources. The project began with the development of the CONFIDENT Map, which included a comprehensive review of scientific literature to establish a structured analysis of the relationship between social media and youth mental health. This review was a collaborative effort, with tasks distributed among project partners according to their areas of expertise. A key component of the project was the CONFIDENT Training for Trainers, where 21 youth educators were trained to apply the developed methodology in their work with young people. This training not only empowered educators but also enabled the consortium to refine and improve the methodology, ensuring its effectiveness and applicability. As part of the project’s outreach efforts, five local workshops were implemented, providing youth with a platform to learn about the negative impacts of social media on mental health. Additionally, three national seminars were held in partner countries, engaging young people, youth workers, and other stakeholders to promote the project’s methodology and results. These events played a significant role in disseminating the project’s findings and encouraging stakeholders to adopt and share the methodology within their communities. A unique aspect of the project was the creation of the CONFIDENT Peer-to-Peer e-learning platform. This platform allowed young people to communicate and support each other outside of social media, providing a safe space for them to express themselves and share experiences. With gamification elements such as badges and interactive features, the platform aimed to increase engagement and foster a sense of community among its users. The project had a Final Conference in Spain, conducted as a blended event with 50 local stakeholders and 40 virtual participants, primarily from international backgrounds. To further strengthen the project’s impact, 75 local workshops were held nationwide by the trained youth educators, directly reaching more than 500 young people. These workshops equipped participants with essential knowledge about the dangers of social media and helped them develop healthier digital habits, ultimately contributing to a more positive self-image and improved mental resilience among youth.

CONFIDENT Map and review of scientific literature
This study examines the impact of social media on young people’s mental health, focusing on self-image and social comparison. It provides youth educators with a theoretical foundation to support their interventions. By mapping and reviewing existing literature, the study highlights key findings and gaps, encouraging further research and policy action.

Type: Studies / Analysis – Mapping, Scientific Literature Review

CONFIDENT Training Program and Methodology
The CONFIDENT Training Program and Methodology is a structured educational framework aimed at youth educators (youth workers, teachers) to equip them with the necessary skills to help young people combat the negative impact of social media. It focuses on media literacy, disinformation, and self-image issues, offering tools to identify and counteract distorted perceptions created by online content.

Type: Methodologies / guidelines – Methodological framework for implementation

CONFIDENT Peer-to-peer E-learning Platform
The peer-to-peer e-learning platform aims to address a growing challenge for today’s youth: the negative impact of social media on their self-image and mental health. The platform is designed to provide a safe, supportive environment where youth can share personal stories, achievements, and strategies for improving mental health and combating the negative effects of social media. This space will foster peer-to-peer learning, allowing young people to empower each other and become leaders in promoting positive mental health.

Type: Services / structures – E-learning platform