Young people and mental health in a changing world
On October 10th, people around the world will be taking part in the annual World Mental Health Day, drawing attention to the importance of mental well-being.
Organised by the World Federation for Mental Health since 1992 and supported by many of the national and international charities, this year the theme will focus on young people and mental health, highlighting the additional stresses faced by today’s youth that can lead to mental health issues.
According to the Mental Health Foundation, around 1 in 10 children and young people are affected by mental health problems including depressions and anxiety. However, they report a more worrying figure in that 70% of those young people have not received help at a sufficiently early age.
UK charity Young Minds report that half of mental health problems are evident by the age of 14, reaching 75% by the age of 24 – this goes to reinforce the importance of early intervention wherever possible.
WFMH President, Professor Alberto Trimboli adds: “This year, World Mental Health Day will talk about the issues facing young people and cover a small portion of the great research, stories, ideas and programs out there to help the next generations be strong and resilient in the face of hardship, life changes, discrimination and destruction. This information is only the beginning – there is an abundance of great information, organizations and advocates out there fighting for the wellbeing of young people
We ask that you join the 2018 World Mental Health Day campaign and help us create a larger audience, a greater impact and a unified voice for global mental health!”
The key topics being addressed, particularly focusing on young people, in the activities supporting World Mental Health Day this year include:
Ultimately the goal of WMHD is to look for a way forward: “We all know that a young person with support, stability and the information will usually lead to a positive, healthy adult. So, how do we make sure our young people have all the skills and support they need to achieve that? Early interventions, prevention, resilience support and programs to educate young people and the world around them. Following are just a few examples of ways we can help create an environment that leads to resilience and happiness.”
For more information about the campaign, visit the World Foundation for Mental Health website
For a range of mental well-being resources including teaching materials, parents guides and staff training, join our Safeguarding Essentials service.
