A complex systems approach towards REsilient and CONNECTED vulnerable European communities in times of change

Global developments such as digitalisation, a changing population and climate change threaten the mental health of European citizens. The EU-funded RECONNECTED project will develop and test a digital support system with intervention tools to promote resilience and connect vulnerable citizens in Europe. RECONNECTED first aims to understand how risk and protective factors interact dynamically and impact the mental health of several vulnerable groups such as youth, the elderly, those of low socioeconomic status, and migrants. Next, the project will assess whether the digital support system improves citizens’ mental health, increases mental health awareness, reduces stigma, and enhances social participation. The support system’s feasibility and effectiveness will be tested in nine vulnerable communities throughout Europe, and implementation scenarios will be developed to inform policy decision-making.