Daejeon, South Korea – Daejeon Metropolitan City is embarking on a pioneering initiative to proactively identify and provide substantial support to young adults at high risk of social isolation and solitary death. This comprehensive program, titled the "Youth Solitary Death High-Risk Group Support Project," is now fully operational across all five of its administrative districts: Dong-gu, Jung-gu, Seo-gu, Yuseong-gu, and Daedeok-gu. This marks a significant achievement as Daejeon is the only city in South Korea to have all its districts simultaneously selected for this highly competitive Ministry of Health and Welfare public contest, solidifying its position as a leading model in youth welfare policy.

The program's core strength lies in its tailored approach, with each district developing specialized programs that reflect local characteristics and the unique needs of its young population. These initiatives aim to provide multi-faceted support, spanning from psychological recovery and the formation of social connections to successful reintegration into daily life and employment. The goal is to address the complex challenges faced by isolated youth and prevent tragic outcomes.

 
Customized Programs Across Daejeon's Districts:
Dong-gu: Restoring Minds with Family Support

Dong-gu's program, managed by the Chamsaram Self-Integrity Integration Center (참사람 자기다움통합센터), focuses on emotional recovery for isolated youth and their families. Through the "Mind-Connecting, Mind-Building" psychological counseling program, participants engage in sensory-based group activities and receive emotional support, laying a foundation for self-recovery. This initiative recognizes the crucial role of family in the healing process and aims to mend fractured relationships while strengthening internal resilience. The center emphasizes a holistic approach, integrating therapeutic techniques with practical strategies for emotional regulation and communication.

Jung-gu: Beyond the Threshold – Life and Work for Youth

The Cheongnyeonmoa Youth Space (청년모아 청년공간) in Jung-gu is dedicated to facilitating daily life recovery by encouraging participation in local community volunteer work, youth organizations, and social enterprises. This hands-on engagement aims to rebuild social skills and a sense of belonging. Furthermore, the program offers support for career exploration and entrepreneurship, helping young adults re-establish their societal roles and pursue meaningful work. The space acts as a vibrant hub, fostering networking opportunities and skill-building workshops tailored to the local job market. It also collaborates with local businesses to provide internship and mentorship opportunities, bridging the gap between isolated youth and the professional world.

Seo-gu: The First Step to Opening Up – Visiting Mentoring

Seo-gu's initiative, led by the Konyang Cyber University Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation (건양사이버대학교 산학협력단), takes a proactive approach by directly reaching out to isolated youth through a "visiting mentoring" service. Mentors provide personalized guidance and support, subsequently connecting individuals with a comprehensive suite of integrated services. These services include professional psychological counseling, guided emotional journaling to process feelings and experiences, and vocational training and entrepreneurship education to promote self-reliance. This direct, personalized intervention is critical for individuals who may be hesitant or unable to seek help on their own, breaking down barriers to access. The program also provides practical assistance with job applications, interview preparation, and even initial financial literacy guidance to ensure a smooth transition into independent living.

Yuseong-gu: Open Recovery Space Near a Subway Station

The Hea-ryeobom Psychological Counseling Center (헤아려봄심리상담센터) in Yuseong-gu boasts excellent accessibility, conveniently located near Exit 3 of Noeun Station. Beyond professional counseling, the center leverages the nearby Eungubi Park for outdoor healing programs, promoting both daily life recovery and social connection through nature-based activities. The easily accessible location is designed to encourage participation from a broader range of young people who might otherwise face transportation barriers or discomfort in visiting a traditional counseling center. The outdoor programs incorporate elements of mindfulness and physical activity, recognized as beneficial for mental well-being. The center also hosts regular community events and workshops to foster a sense of camaraderie and reduce feelings of isolation.

Daedeok-gu: A Healing Walk and Stay in Daily Life – "Walking Through"

The Daedeok-gu Family Center (대덕구가족센터) is implementing "Walking Through," a unique walking project that encourages reclusive youth to naturally venture outdoors by setting nearby cafes and other community spaces as destinations. This subtle approach aims to gently reintroduce them to public spaces and social interaction. In parallel, the "Home Sweet Home" program offers support for improving residential environments and provides concurrent psychological counseling, addressing both external and internal factors contributing to isolation. This multi-pronged strategy acknowledges that a safe and comfortable living environment is crucial for mental well-being and social reintegration. The walking project also incorporates elements of guided conversation and shared experiences, turning a simple walk into a therapeutic and bonding activity.

 
Enhancing Accessibility and Participation:

To maximize participation, Daejeon City and its districts are implementing various strategies to enhance accessibility. This includes direct outreach through "find-you" services, utilizing QR code surveys for self-diagnosis, and providing direct consultation channels. Young adults interested in participating can apply for counseling through the respective district's operating agency or their local Dong administrative welfare center. Submitting a self-assessment survey via QR code also allows for eligibility verification and personalized program linkage, streamlining the application process and ensuring tailored support. This proactive outreach and simplified application process aim to remove barriers for young people who may be struggling with social anxiety or difficulty navigating bureaucratic systems.

Kim Jong-min, Director of Daejeon City's Welfare Bureau, emphasized the city's unwavering commitment to supporting isolated and reclusive youth. "We will expand more precise and practical recovery support to help isolated and reclusive young people reach out to their lives again," he stated. "Through this project, we hope that more young people will connect with society and find a new direction in life."

This comprehensive and collaborative effort underscores Daejeon City's dedication to leading the way in youth welfare, setting a precedent for other municipalities to follow in addressing the critical issue of social isolation and solitary death among young adults. The success of this program could provide valuable insights and best practices for national strategies aimed at supporting vulnerable youth populations.