Social Inclusion and Mental Health: Research Report on the Effects of Discrimination on the Wellbeing of Marginalized Young People presents the findings of a transnational study conducted in Germany, Greece, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, and Türkiye.

The research focuses on young people aged 18–35 from marginalized groups, including Roma youth, migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. It examines how experiences of discrimination influence wellbeing, mental health, and young people’s perception of their place in society.

Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines quantitative data collected from over 700 participants with qualitative insights from interviews with young people and youth workers. The findings highlight that discrimination is a widespread and significant factor negatively affecting mental wellbeing, contributing to anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, and reduced life satisfaction.

The report also identifies protective factors such as social connectedness, self-worth, and a sense of personal agency, which can mitigate the harmful effects of discrimination. Based on these findings, the study provides evidence-based recommendations for youth work practice, policy development, and the creation of supportive, trauma-informed interventions at local, national, and European levels.