Nürnberg's GROW HAPPY NBG Project Boosts Youth Mental Health Through Community Engagement
Nürnberg's GROW HAPPY NBG project engages youth in volunteer activities to enhance their mental health and community ties, supported by health programs and practices like Lachyoga.
- • GROW HAPPY NBG is a participatory mental health project for youth in Nürnberg funded by AOK Bayern through 2026.
- • Youth participants collaborate with health coordinators on volunteer activities to foster community connections and psychosocial health.
- • The project aims to raise mental health awareness and network stakeholders across the community.
- • Lachyoga, emphasizing laughter’s health benefits, complements mental wellness initiatives in Nürnberg.
Key details
The City of Nürnberg's Health Department has initiated GROW HAPPY NBG, a participatory project dedicated to improving the mental health and psychosocial well-being of children and adolescents. Running from 2023 to 2026 and funded by AOK Bayern under the Federal Prevention Act, the project actively involves young participants working with health coordinators to organize volunteer activities that foster community connections. These activities include visits and engagements with nursing home residents, cooking together, and group outings, all designed to promote mental resilience and social bonding among youth. The initiative also pursues recognition through the 'YOUNGAGEMENT – the award for young engagement.'
A key aim of GROW HAPPY NBG is to network various community stakeholders to raise awareness of mental health's importance for overall quality of life. Health coordinators collaborate with partners to tailor programs supporting youth psychosocial strength.
Moreover, complementary practices like Lachyoga, which encourages uninhibited laughter, are being recognized for their health benefits such as strengthening the immune system, lowering blood pressure, and enhancing social relationships. Lachyoga trainer Claudia Arnold highlights how laughter fosters immediate positive effects in interpersonal connections, contributing broadly to mental and physical well-being.
Together, these initiatives represent Nürnberg’s comprehensive approach to promoting youth mental health through innovative community-based projects and well-being practices, aiming to create a resilient and supportive environment for younger generations.