Engaging co-creators network in a public mental health intervention: MENTBEST

Abstract Background MENTBEST, a 5-year EU-funded project, addresses mental health challenges among vulnerable groups using community-based interventions and innovative technologies. It aims to mitigate adverse impacts, focusing on migrants, older individuals, younger individuals, long-term unemployed individuals, and those with mental disorders in Albania, Germany, Spain, Denmark, Greece, Ireland and Estonia. MENTBEST seeks to provide tailored support to vulnerable populations, promoting mental well-being and resilience through two interventions (a) Mentina a mobile app and (b) a complex community intervention based upon the European Against Depression 4-level intervention. Methods A Participatory Action Approach has been employed through each research stage of MENTBEST where stakeholders across Europe have become part of the research team and provide input towards designing and evaluating the two interventions mentioned above. The PRODUCES framework was used to establish the Co-creators Network, ensuring inclusivity and relevance through: stakeholder mapping, prioritization, and engagement strategies. An online platform has been established for the network to collaborate as a community of practice, but also as means of upskilling co-creators through MOOCs and brief courses. Results The Co-creators Network comprises 24 diverse members strategically distributed among vulnerable groups through all participating Mentbest countries. Engagement activities include workshop participation on taking decisions on a range of research topics such as designing content, evaluation of the interventions, implementation of the interventions etc. Conclusions The Co-creators Network represents a milestone for MENTBEST, ensuring a collaborative approach to public mental health intervention. Innovative strategies highlight the project’s commitment to addressing the mental health needs of vulnerable populations. Key messages • Collaborative approach in MENTBEST fosters inclusive public mental health interventions. • Co-creators Network drives innovative strategies to address mental health needs of vulnerable groups.