In my master's thesis, I explored the mental health of young people during the transition from the educational system to the labor market. In the theoretical part, I addressed topics such as youth and identity, changes and coping mechanisms, mental health and its influencing factors, the transition from schooling to employment and finally, social work as a form of support for young people. As part of the research, I formulated four research questions focusing on young people's preparation for the transition from education to employment, the types of factors affecting their mental health during this period, the support provided by their social networks and the role of social work in supporting youth during this transition. The research was qualitative, I used a partially standardized interview to collect data, conducted with a small, non-random and convenience sample of ten young individuals. The collected data was recorded in a question-and-answer format, coded and qualitatively analyzed by first identifying coding units, assigning them concepts and classified them into themes nad categories. Open coding was followed by axial coding which enabled clearer organization of the content. The study found that young people need various knowledge and skills when entering the labor market, especially due to challenges such as a lack of work experience. They experience a range of emotions during this time, both positive and negative. Young people often receive support from their non-formal social networks (family, partner, friends) and less frequently seek help from professionals. Nonetheless, the interviewees emphasized the need for early preparation for employment transition already in the school environment and the need for mentoring at the workplace. The transition is accompanied by many changes (e.g., adapting to a new daily routine), which can affect young people's mental health. Other factors such as parental pressure and societal expectations also have an impact. Therefore, social work plays an important role during this transitional period, acting as a source of support in overcoming transition challenges, a guide and a source of empowerment.
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