In response to increasing global mental health challenges, worsened by COVID-19 and social inequalities, it's crucial to focus on community-based solutions. Kosovo's mental health services are shifting towards this approach to better meet emerging needs by prioritizing prevention and cost-effective treatment. This shift calls for new strategies in health promotion, data gathering, and research, marking a significant move towards improving community mental health and well-being.

To facilitate this transformation, the Department of Psychology is organizing a conference to share research and practical solutions for enhancing community mental health. This conference, titled "Empowering Communities: The Role of Evidence in Mental Health Interventions," seeks to convene a diverse group of experts, practitioners, researchers, and policymakers. By focusing on evidence-based practices in mental health, we aim to address the unique challenges faced by today's communities through effective and innovative approaches.

We warmly invite contributions from individuals across psychology, public health, social work, and related fields to join this critical conversation. This interdisciplinary forum is not just an event but a collective step forward in improving community mental health and fostering a healthier society.

Conference Themes:

Submissions are encouraged that address, but are not limited to, the following themes:

• Innovative models and strategies for community mental health interventions

• Assessment and effectiveness of evidence-based mental health programs in community settings

• The role of technology and digital tools in enhancing community mental health services

• Collaborative approaches involving healthcare providers, NGOs, community leaders, and policymakers in mental health interventions

• Cultural competence and sensitivity in mental health practices within diverse communities

• Case studies, qualitative, and quantitative research highlighting challenges and solutions in community mental health

• Strategies for mental health promotion and prevention at the community level

• Addressing the mental health needs of various social groups within communities

• Building resilience and promoting psychological well-being in community settings

Submission Guidelines:

• Abstracts should be no more than 250 words, summarizing the research question, methodology, results, and implications of the study.

• Please indicate the presentation format preference: oral presentation, poster, or workshop.

• Submissions must be original and not previously published or under review for publication elsewhere.

• All submissions will be peer-reviewed based on their relevance, originality, importance, and clarity.

Key Dates:

• Abstract Submission Deadline: 26 March 2024

• Notification of Acceptance: 6 April 2024

• Conference Date: 17-18 April 2024

Submission Process:

Please submit your abstracts via departamenti.psikologjise@uni-pr.edu

Contact Information:

For any inquiries regarding the conference or submission process, please contact departamenti.psikologjise@uni-pr.edu

We look forward to your contributions and to an engaging and insightful conference that advances our understanding and practices in community mental health.