In my thesis, I focus on exploring the role of formal and informal support networks in maintaining the mental health of Roma in the Prekmurje region. In the theoretical part, I present the importance of mental health, the role of the social environment and support networks, and the distinction between formal and informal support. In addition, I examine the Roma community in Slovenia, particularly in the Prekmurje region, and highlight the impact of poverty, discrimination, marginalization, and access to support resources on mental health. I emphasize the significance of Roma cultural values, traditions and language and their protective role. In the empirical part, qualitative interviews are conducted with ten Roma from Prekmurje. The data are analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding. The research focuses on the question of how Roma perceive and use support networks, what types of support they prefer, how the role of these networks changes with age and what importance cultural values have for individual mental health. The results show that informal networks — especially family, friends and the community — are the most common and most accessible sources of support. Roma rely on these forms of support because they are close to them, understand them and provide them with emotional comfort. Formal networks are often perceived as distant, bureaucratic and less accessible, although their role in overcoming material hardship is recognised. Younger Roma tend to express mental health problems more openly and seek peer support, while older people rely on extended family and often express their distress through physical symptoms. Maintaining Roma cultural traditions and language is also an important protective factor that contributes to a sense of belonging, pride and inner stability. The results confirm the importance of synergy between formal and informal support. Positive experiences with individual professionals can significantly change attitudes towards institutions. Cultural sensitivity and presence in the community are essential for effective social work. The findings are important for understanding the complex needs of the Roma community and can contribute to the development of more accessible, respectful and inclusive forms of social work support.
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