The state of mental health of our young people
The state of mental health of our young people: challenges and hopes
A dramatic but important fact
The number of young people with mental health problems is increasing at an alarming rate worldwide.
The WHO 2022 report the prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by 25% in young people in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This data is not just a figure. It is the quiet tragedy of millions of everyday lives.
So the question is: Why is it important to address this problem at global and local level?
This is because mental health not only affects the lives of individuals, it also affects families, communities and ultimately societies.
International picture: what does the data show?
The pandemic has only accelerated the deterioration of young people's mental health.
The UNICEF 2021 report from more than 89 million young people worldwide suffer from depression each year, and more than 1.6 billion young people experience negative effects on their mental health.
A VG according to 45% of 15-24 year olds have a health problem.
These figures highlight that attention to young people's mental health is key not only for individual well-being, but also for global development.
Anxiety and depression do not discriminate. It can affect families from any economic, cultural or geographical background.
The State of Hungary: reality behind the numbers
If the data above were not enough, the Economx details found a 52-71% increase in the prevalence of symptoms of mental illness, such as depression, among young people over 12 years.
The consequences of anxiety and depression include problems such as poor academic performance, breakdown in social relationships or even self-harming behaviour. These young people often do not get the support they need in time, and their situation worsens.
The role of the Experience Warehouse: support and community
What can we do to ensure that these statistics are not just dry data? How can we turn words into action?
At the Experience Warehouse, we regularly organise resilience group sessions to help young people learn to deal with stress, process trauma and build self-confidence. Through these group activities and approaches, we aim to provide effective, personalised support to the young people who come to us.
Our mentors personally help young people to identify and work through their problems.
A mentor is not just a teacher, a counsellor or a programme coordinator. A mentor is a confidant who provides ongoing support, whether it's learning, emotional problems or career advice.
The Experience House provides a community space where young people can find acceptance, support and understanding. From art sessions to sporting events and debate clubs, we aim to empower young people emotionally and mentally through a range of activities.
Change is possible: every small step - a piece of supportive feedback, a well-timed conversation, a safe community space - can make a huge difference to young people's lives.
Our purpose and our vocation have become our motto:
We want to be a beacon that children can always see and turn to for support and help.
At the end of the article, we leave you with one question: what can you do to support young people in your area? Because change starts here - with us, with you, with everyone.