Raising young people’s awareness on sexual and reproductive health issues

Abstract Issue/problem Despite the high prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases(STIs) and abortions among Greek youth, sexuality education is not yet part of the curriculum of Greek schools and the Greek family is not ready to address these issues with comfort. Description of the problem A “one-stop information point” was organized for one week in major cities of Crete Region as part of a community health program, which was funded by the Regional Authority of Crete to address “Gender Equality in the Region of Crete within 2018-2020”. The project aimed at increasing young people’s awareness of sexual health issues using a “peer education” approach and a youth-friendly information package. Undergraduate students from health, mental health and social care professions acted as volunteers upon receiving a rigorous 2-day training by sexual and reproductive health experts. The questions to be answered by the project were: “What are the main concerns of adolescents regarding their sexual health? How much satisfaction could adolescents gain by a “one stop information point” and a youth friendly “information package” offered by peers? Results Serious information gaps regarding contraception and STI’s and a number of stereotypes regarding healthy relations and sexual orientation have been recorded. Gender dysphoria is still an issue that remains unaddressed among young people. A youth-friendly website (LaHeRS Lab) and short videos are now available as part of the project to facilitate young people’s access to information. A large social media network of young people interested in sexual health issues has been formed locally and is growing nationally. The intervention was received with satisfaction. Lessons “One-stop information centres” and “peer education” have been an ideal combination to address sensitive issues among young people. Key messages Knowledge gaps and unsafe sexual practices are prevalent among adolescents. Sexuality education should be offered in early school life.