Minds of Unites
Minds of Unites
More than half of young people in the Netherlands experience mental health issues at some point. Issues like stress, pressure to perform, loneliness, or financial worries that create mental strain. This also applies to the young people who play 3X3 on our courts. Maybe you can relate to this.
The mission of Minds of Unites is:
"Create awareness and break taboos by starting conversations and spreading knowledge. We connect minds!"
Why does Minds of Unites exist?
At 3X3 Unites, we place great importance on mental health. It is essential to be open about this so we can break down stigmas and encourage young people to seek help when needed. Your well-being is crucial for your personal development.
3X3 Unites wants to create more awareness about mental health by starting both online and offline conversations about sometimes difficult topics. We see that there are still taboos around vulnerability, and we want to break these down and make the stigma disappear."
3X3 Leaders Break Taboos
Within our community, there are young people dealing with mental health issues. 3X3 Leaders, who are role models in their environment, also face their own (mental) challenges. Some of them are brave enough to share their stories about their own struggles with mental health. They do this to bring the topic out of anonymity and to let young people know that there is a way out when struggling with mental health issues.
You can read their stories here.
Emilija Dordevic
One of the 3X3 Leaders who shares her story with us is Ema. Ema has overcome an eating disorder and shares what that journey has been like for her.
Mike Nasibdar
We share Mike's story, in which he talks about his experiences with mental health and loneliness. Mike wants to tell his story to our 3X3 family and all young people, in hopes of helping others who are going through the same thing.
We are honored that he wants to share such a personal matter with our community.
Lisa Bakker
Lisa shares her experiences with her mental health while living with Gilles de la Tourette’s. Lisa wants the 3X3 family to know her story so that others in the community understand that it’s okay to struggle with mental challenges.
Want to talk to someone?
Are you facing mental challenges yourself? It can help to talk (anonymously) to someone about it. Where can you go for help?
Note: these are Dutch resources.
- De Kindertelefoon: Chat or call every day, anonymous & confidential (8-18 years old)
- De alles Oké? Supportlijn: Chat or call every day, anonymous & confidential (18-25 years old)
- 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: Chat or call every day, anonymous & confidential. They also offer advice if you’re worried about someone else.
- Jongeren Hulp Online: More than 20 help lines in one place. Fast, anonymous, and free.
- De huisarts: To assess the situation, provide treatment, and refer you to specialized care.
You can also reach out to one of our 3X3 Leaders or someone you know within the 3X3 Unites community.
And remember: you are not alone!
Resilience
At 3X3 Unites, we believe in the power of vulnerability. No masks, just the real you. Discovering who you really are and what you stand for is often a journey. This takes time, space, and attention. We help you by organizing Get Togethers. Here you can laugh, play basketball, and also dive deeper into important topics for young people. Sometimes these are led by young people themselves, other times by an expert.
Inclusivity
At 3X3 Unites, we use sports to stay both physically and mentally fit. Our Leader Course provides perspective and connects you with other young people. We are an inclusive community where everyone is welcome, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. We look beyond labels and see each other as human beings. That’s what connects us!
Equality
To promote gender equality in sports, we organize special activities for girls together with our partner, Nike Made to Play. We train them to become role models, 3X3 Leaders. They organize activities in Amsterdam throughout the year, specifically for young girls. This allows them to move, play, and get to know 3X3 basketball in the right environment, with proper guidance.
3X3 Mentor Course
Do you want to help people in your community with mental challenges and breaking taboos?
Since this year, experienced 3X3 Leaders can follow the 3X3 Mentor Course and develop into 3X3 Mentors. As a mentor, you are the eyes and ears of your local community. You provide a listening ear and guide other leaders and young people in 1-on-1 coaching sessions. During the 3X3 Mentor Course, you’ll develop skills to better assist young people in their personal development. Your own growth is also a central focus, helping you become even stronger in your role.
The 3X3 Mentor Course was developed in collaboration with young people, GGD, and Thrive Amsterdam.
Want to know more about the 3X3 Mentor Course? Contact Melissa ‘t Jong, Training Coordinator at 3X3 Unites, at melissa@3x3unites.com