MISSION OF THE CENTRE
The mission of the Centre for Mental Health and Physical Activity is to promote, advance and improve understanding of the benefits of physical activity as a powerful and accessible tool for preserving and enhancing mental health and quality of life. Drawing on contemporary scientific knowledge and through the interdisciplinary integration of psychology, movement sciences, public health and other social sciences, the Centre develops, implements and evaluates scientific and professional research, educational programmes and public health initiatives that promote psychological well-being, reduce the stigma associated with mental health difficulties and encourage healthy forms of physical activity.
With the mission of improving the mental health of individuals and the community, the Centre serves as a platform connecting the Faculty, healthcare and sports systems, and the wider public, providing evidence-based content that supports psychological resilience, healthy lifestyle habits and a positive relationship with the body and movement. In accordance with legal and ethical principles, particular emphasis is placed on empowering recreational exercisers and athletes, children, young people, adults, parents of athletes and coaches through education, dialogue and humanitarian activities.
Ultimately, the mission of the Centre is to promote movement as a sustainable and evidence-based means of strengthening public health and the well-being of society as a whole.
VISION OF THE CENTRE
The vision of the Centre is to become a nationally and internationally recognized professional and research platform that integrates physical activity and mental health as important pillars of human well-being. The Centre strives to contribute to a society in which movement is accessible and encouraging for everyone, while conversations about mental health are normalized, supported and strengthened by scientific knowledge.
In its long-term development, the Centre aims to be a driving force for cooperation among university constituents and national and international sports and public health institutions; an innovator in research and programmes linking movement and psychological well-being; and a key actor in the development of public policies, educational programmes and initiatives that contribute to healthier, more resilient and more active communities.
OBJECTIVES OF THE CENTRE
Collaboration
a) Enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration among the departments and chairs of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences in Osijek and encouraging the development of joint research, teaching and public health activities related to mental health and physical activity.
b) Developing cooperation with universities in Croatia and abroad, particularly with constituents active in the fields of psychology, kinesiology, public health, sociology, educational and rehabilitation sciences, and related disciplines.
c) Establishing partnerships with related research centres, healthcare institutions, sports organizations and public institutions for the joint development and implementation of projects connecting movement and mental health.
Scientific and Research Activities
d) Preparing and submitting scientific, professional and public health project proposals, including international projects and projects funded through national and European funds.
e) Conducting scientific and professional research and publishing scientific papers that advance understanding of the relationship between physical activity, emotional well-being, resilience, stress and mental health across different populations.
Education and Professional Events
f) Organizing scientific, professional and science popularization events, including symposia, conference sessions, thematic round tables and panel discussions.
g) Organizing public lectures, workshops, forums, training sessions and round tables to popularize scientific knowledge on mental health and physical activity and encourage dialogue between experts and the community.
Public Activities, Community Contribution and Social Impact
h) Developing and implementing programmes that encourage physical activity in the community, including the organization of races, recreational activities, cycling events and community challenges.
i) Implementing public health campaigns, social initiatives, media activities and social media programmes to raise awareness of the importance of mental health and encourage an active lifestyle.
j) Publishing professional articles, manuals, recommendations and other forms of educational publications that promote current knowledge on the relationship between physical activity and mental health.