Supporting Young People

Adolescence and the early years of adulthood are a time of life when many changes occur, for example changing schools, leaving home, and starting university or a new job. For many, these are exciting times. They can also be times of stress and apprehension however. In some cases, if not recognized and managed, these feelings can lead to mental illness. The expanding use of online technologies, while undoubtedly bringing many benefits, can also bring additional pressures, as connectivity to virtual networks at any time of the day and night grows.

Half of all mental illness begins by the age of 14

Half of all mental illness begins by the age of 14, but most cases go undetected and untreated. In terms of the burden of the disease among young people, depression is the third leading cause. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds. Harmful use of alcohol and illicit drugs among young people is a major issue in many countries and can lead to risky behaviours such as unsafe sex or dangerous driving. Eating disorders are also of concern.

Growing recognition of the importance of building mental resilience

Fortunately, there is a growing recognition of the importance of helping young people build mental resilience, from the earliest ages, in order to cope with the challenges of today’s world. 

Evidence is growing that promoting and protecting young people’s health brings benefits not just to young people health, both in the short- and the long-term, but also to economies and society, with healthy young adults able to make greater contributions to the workforce, their families and communities and society as a whole.

Prevention begins with better understanding

It can be daunting to try to talk to people about their mental health and you may feel that you do not know enough, or that you may make things worse by talking to them about it. In reality people benefit from just having someone listen to them and sharing the thoughts and feelings. Asking someone about their feelings and showing concern about them will not make them worse.

Due to the stigma which surrounds it people often feel reluctant about talking about their mental health and will say that they are ‘fine’ when they are not.

This is the reason we support Time-to-change’s Ask Twice campaign