«We want to break through stigma and silence»
Mrs Vital, what is the aim of Zeta Movement?
Zeta Movement is a project by young adults for adolescents and young adults in Switzerland. Our aim is to break through the social stigmatisation and silence surrounding mental illness. In this way, our organisation raises awareness of mental health issues.
How do you go about it?
At the centre of the movement are our ambassadors, young people who have themselves been affected by a mental disorder and are now at an advanced stage of recovery. They visit schools, sports clubs, youth centres or leisure organisations to engage in an open dialogue with young people on the topic of mental health.
Our ambassadors share their experience of mental illness and discuss ways to get help.
A visit lasts around one and a half hours and begins with an introduction to the topic, after which the ambassadors share their personal experience of mental illness and discuss ways to get help. And they take time to answer the young people's questions. Our ambassadors are accompanied by a mental health expert. The visits are free of charge, but donations are always welcome.
Who can get involved with Zeta Movement?
Young adults who have experience of mental illness themselves and are interested in becoming an ambassador. They are well prepared for their task and attend a workshop with Stefanie Schmidt, a professor of clinical psychology at the University of Bern, who provides scientific support for our project. This is important so that young adults can share their story in a setting that is appropriate for the age of the audience and does not contain overly personal details or content that could be off-putting or disturbing for the listeners. Then there is the option of supporting us with an annual subscription of CHF 50 - CHF 30 for those who are in training or studying. Recently, we also have active members who help us out with various small tasks.
More information: www.zetamovement.com
