ental Health Crisis Among Young People Worsens Globally

🌍 What Is Happening?

A new report by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF reveals that more than 1 in 7 adolescents worldwide live with a mental health disorder.

Depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems are the most common, but many cases remain undiagnosed and untreated.

Between 2019 and 2024, the number of young people seeking help for mental health issues has doubled.
Experts warn that social media pressures, economic uncertainty, climate anxiety, and loneliness are fueling the crisis.

✅ Key Facts:

• Suicide is the 4th leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds.

• Nearly 50% of mental health conditions start before age 14.

• 80% of young people in low-income countries have no access to mental health care.

Henrietta Fore, former UNICEF Executive Director, said:

“Young people are crying out for help, but health systems are failing them.”

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💔 Why Should We Care?

If left untreated, mental health problems can lead to:

• School dropout.

• Substance abuse.

• Self-harm and suicide.

• Unemployment.

• Chronic health problems in adulthood.

🚨 Warning Signs to Watch For:

• Sudden changes in mood or behavior.

• Withdrawal from friends and family.

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness.

• Extreme worry or fear.

• Talking about wanting to die.

🔍 Common Causes:

• Violence, abuse, or neglect.

• Family conflict.

• Poverty.

• Academic pressure.

• Social isolation.

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🌱 What Can We Do About It?

✅ Supporting mental well-being in young people:
1️⃣ Listen without judgment and offer reassurance.
2️⃣ Encourage daily physical activity and good sleep.
3️⃣ Limit excessive screen time and exposure to harmful online content.
4️⃣ Seek professional help early if needed.
5️⃣ Promote open conversations about mental health in schools and communities.

Dr. Dévora Kestel, Director of WHO Mental Health, said:

“Investing in mental health is investing in a healthy future. No one should suffer in silence.”

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🧠 Expert Words

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, added:

“Mental health must be treated as seriously as physical health. The cost of inaction is too high.”

WHO is urging countries to:

• Increase funding for child and adolescent mental health services.

• Train teachers and health workers in early detection.

• Integrate mental health into primary health care.