Climbing as therapeutic tool for mental health and education

ongoing

This project stems from the recognition of sport as a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle, not only addressing physical health issues but also acknowledging its substantial contribution to mental and social well-being. Focused on the growing popularity of climbing across Europe, this project harnesses the unique potential of climbing as a therapeutic and educational tool, bridging the gap between physical movement and mental resilience, and unlocking new pathways for well-being, social integration, and community strength. The consortium, comprising organisations from Germany, Italy, Spain, Romania and Hungary with diverse expertise in mental health intervention, outdoor education, social inclusion and climbing, will collaborate to produce novel insights on the mental health benefits of climbing, identify best practices, and create a methodology for integration of climbing in therapeutic and educational settings. The project emphasises collaboration between mental health, climbing, and outdoor education for inclusion sectors, fostering connections internationally and laying the groundwork for an international network of professionals in therapeutic climbing. This 2 years project through a comprehensive set of activities, including in person exchange events, practitioner mobility, pilot programs, training sessions, and dissemination campaigns and events, aims to enhance the capacities of organisations to use climbing as a tool for mental well-being, promote life skills, and encourage a healthy lifestyle. By addressing specific priorities of the Erasmus+ Sport Programme, the project aligns with goals such as encouraging a healthy lifestyle through sport, promoting education through sport, and fostering inclusion and diversity. The initiative will engage professionals from across sectors including youth workers, researchers, social workers, coaches, outdoor professionals and mental health workers contributing to the awareness and de-stigmatisation of mental health issues