Dr Irena Chawrilska – coordinator of the Culture (for) Sustainable Development programme of the Centre for Sustainable Development at the University of Gdansk – is one of the authors of the Voices of Culture report. The work addresses the relationship between youth wellbeing and participation in culture (Brainstorming Report on Youth, Mental Health and Culture).
The authors of the report are representatives of various areas: culture, health care, social welfare, education and science from 22 European countries.
The publication shows how music, dance, art, visits to museums and cultural centres can help manage and prevent stress in everyday life. Engaging in artistic activities facilitates self-esteem, self-acceptance, self-confidence and resilience. Participating in culture can also help reduce the risk of developing mental illnesses, such as depression in adolescence.