Mental health is an essential part of overall health. It not only affects the ability of young people to succeed in school, at work, and throughout life but is critical to their overall well-being and to the health of our nation.
Mental health conditions are real, common, and treatable, and people experiencing mental health challenges deserve support, compassion, and care, not stigma and shame. It is no less important than physical health, and that must be reflected in how we communicate about and prioritise mental health.
According to the World Health Organization, globally, one in seven 10-19-year-olds experiences a mental disorder, accounting for 13 per cent of the global burden of disease in this age group. Depression, anxiety and behavioural disorders are among the leading causes of illness and disability among adolescents/youths. Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15-19 year-olds.
The consequences of failing to address youth’s mental health conditions extend to adulthood, impairing both physical and mental health and limiting opportunities to lead fulfilling lives as adults.
Sadly, mental health challenges are the leading cause of disability and poor life outcomes in young people. Unfortunately, in recent years, there have been significant increases in certain mental health disorders in youth, including depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation.
As youths become more involved with active minds, they are more likely to reach out to their friends who are struggling with a mental health issue such as depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. Cyberbullying through social media has also been a key contributing factor towards poor mental health.
To this effect, there is a need to empower the youth and their families to recognise, manage, and learn from difficult emotions. For youth, this includes building strong relationships with peers and supportive adults, practising techniques to manage emotions, taking care of body and mind, being attentive to the use of social media and technology, and seeking help when needed.
Families and caregivers ought to address their own mental health and substance use conditions, be positive role models for children, promote positive relationships between children and others as well as with social media and technology, and learn to identify and address challenges early. They should understand that asking for help is a sign of strength.
Additionally, society should ensure that every child has access to high-quality, affordable and culturally competent mental health care. The care should be tailored to children’s developmental stages and health needs, and available in primary care practices, schools and other community-based settings. It’s particularly important to intervene early, so that emerging symptoms don’t turn into crises.
Addressing the economic and social barriers that contribute to poor mental health for young people, families and caregivers is also very critical. Priorities should include reducing child poverty and ensuring access to quality childcare, early childhood services and education; healthy food; affordable health care; stable housing, and safe neighbourhoods.
The country needs an integrated, real-time data infrastructure for understanding youth mental health trends. More research is also needed on the relationship between technology and mental health. Governments and other stakeholders should engage directly with young people to understand trends and design effective solutions.
Communications & PR specialist. @lawrencekitema
