Deadlines, expectations, the pressure to be “fine” all the time. But here’s the truth we often forget: “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay”

Talking about mental health should be normal, just like talking about your favourite song, your weekend plans, or your next volunteering project. Because mental health is part of who we are. Across Europe, young people are facing similar struggles — stress, burnout, loneliness, fear of not being enough. Yet we often hide it behind a smile or a “I’m good, thanks.” That’s exactly why this campaign matters.
From 10 to 30 October, the Young Caritas Europe network invites you to join the movement “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay”
Our goal is simple:
To raise awareness.
To break the stigma.
To create safe spaces where young people can share, listen, and support each other.
Through honest stories, open conversations, we want to remind every young person out there: your feelings are valid, your story matters and you are never alone.
Let’s talk about mental health not as a taboo, but as a shared experience, one that connects us beyond borders and languages because when we speak up, we heal and when we listen, we empower.
Together, we can make sure every young person across Europe knows this truth: “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay”