Global Mental Health Report: Youth Facing a Growing Crisis, What Are Major Factors Contributing To Rising Challenge?
Mental health continues to emerge as one of the most serious public health challenges of the 21st century — particularly among adolescents and young adults.
Recent global data highlights a concerning rise in mental health conditions, indicating that mental illness is not only widespread but increasingly affecting younger generations
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) one in seven adolescence experiences a mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, or behavioural disorders, accounting for a significant portion of the global disease burden among this age group.
1 billion people are living with some form of mental health disorder
Overall, more than 1 billion people worldwideare living with some form of mental health disorder, with conditions like anxiety and depression inflicting a heavy human and economic toll globally.
Depression, anxiety, and behavioural problems are among the leading causes of illness and disability for young people. Suicide is also one of the top causes of death for those aged 15–29 underscoring the severity of the crisis.
Rates of youth mental health disorders have risen significantly
Experts note that rates of youth mental health disorders have risen significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic with long-term impacts still emerging. Research shows that pandemic-related stress, social isolation, and uncertainty have worsened mental health outcomes, and these effects persist among young people even years later
Major global trends contributing to rise in mental health issues
Several major global trends are contributing to the rise in mental health challenges among youth:
Digital and social media pressures where excessive use correlates with higher rates of anxiety and depression. Economic instability and job insecurity especially for younger generations entering the workforce.
Many young people are reporting intense worry about environmental changes and future risks especially due to academic and social stressors including exam pressure, bullying, and extreme performance expectations.
Today there is a major gap in access to care of such persons.Despite the high prevalence of mental health conditions, a striking majority of affected individuals do not receive timely or adequate treatment.
In India, for example, experts estimate that over 80% of people with mental illness fail to get necessary care due to stigma, misinformation, and limited mental health resources — especially in rural and semi-urban areas.
International organizations, including the United Nations (UN) and WHO, are advocating for a greater investment in mental health services.Integration of mental health care into primary health systems. School-based support and early intervention programs.Public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and encourage care-seeking
Experts emphasize that supporting youth mental health is not only a health priority, but a development and human rights imperative— early action can prevent long-term disability and improve social outcomes.
It’s a matter of huge concern as the world becomes more interconnected and pressures on young people grow — socially, economically,and psychologically youth mental health is emerging as a global crisis requiring urgent, coordinated solutions
Without effective intervention, experts warn that the human and economic costs will continue to rise.
By ANASUYA ROY