Spotify and UNICEF debut Romanian-language podcast concentrated on mental health issues
In a bid to bolster adolescent mental health support across different regions, UNICEF has launched localized versions of its podcast On My Mind (În Mintea mea). This initiative, which began in 2023, aims to democratize mental health resources and address the global mental health crisis affecting children and young people.
The Romanian-language version of On My Mind was launched in 2025, integrating it into the country's national psychological support efforts for young people. This podcast, available for free on Spotify, features eight co-created episodes addressing topics such as stress, anxiety, depression, grief, stigma, and coping tools. The podcast is designed to reach teenagers, parents, teachers, and specialists who work with youth, complementing UNICEF Romania's broader mental health strategy.
UNICEF's efforts in Latin America began with an initial 2023 launch in English, Polish, and Ukrainian, targeting youth affected by the war in Ukraine. In 2024, the podcast expanded to Spanish and Portuguese, reaching millions of young people in Latin America. These versions provide culturally adapted, accessible psychological support through Spotify.
UNICEF collaborates closely with local young people to ensure the podcast is relevant and impactful in each country where it is launched. This partnership with Spotify, a founding member of UNICEF’s Global Coalition for Youth Mental Health, leverages Spotify’s wide reach and content capabilities to deliver mental health support.
In Romania, tens of thousands of children and adolescents face mental health issues. În mintea mea is described as a safe space where young people can feel understood and encouraged to ask for help. The podcast aims to improve young people's knowledge, attitudes, practices, and behaviors regarding mental health.
One in three adolescents aged 11 to 15 in Romania feels sad at least once a week. The first season of În mintea mea consists of eight episodes, each offering exercises and information that help maintain mental well-being. The podcast is free for listeners, making it accessible to all who need it.
The Ukrainian launch aimed to address the urgent mental health needs of young people affected by the war. The podcast content is based on concrete data regarding the mental health needs of young people, ensuring it addresses the most pressing issues.
UNICEF's strategy with On My Mind demonstrates a commitment to offering accessible, culturally relevant mental health support to young people worldwide. By adapting the podcast to the specific context of each country, UNICEF aims to close the gaps in accessing mental health services for young people, providing a vital resource in the fight against the global mental health crisis.
Science plays a crucial role in shaping the content of On My Mind, as UNICEF collaborates with mental health specialists to create episodes that provide accurate information and coping tools related to adolescent mental health.
The podcast, On My Mind, not only focuses on mental health but also extends its reach to health-and-wellness, addressing topics such as stress, anxiety, depression, and coping mechanisms, ultimately promoting overall well-being among young people in various countries.
