Addressing mental health crisis of youth

The sharp rise in mental health struggles among young people is a growing yet often overlooked emergency worldwide. Across every region, youth are reporting increased levels of stress, depression, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. What was once hidden within individuals has now emerged as a collective crisis, demanding urgent attention.
Several interconnected factors fuel this distress. Social media platforms create relentless pressure to meet often unrealistic and idealised standards of appearance, success, and lifestyle. Academic competition intensifies as young people face heightened expectations, while the uncertainty of the future-whether economic, environmental, or social-weighs heavily on their minds. Additionally, the psychological aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic still lingers, leaving many young minds vulnerable and isolated after prolonged periods of lockdown and disruption.
Mental health remains a deeply sensitive subject in many societies, especially across South Asia. Most schools lack proper emotional support systems, and access to professional mental health services is either limited, unaffordable, or socially stigmatized. As a result, many young people feel isolated and helpless, with some tragically resorting to self-harm or more drastic measures.
This escalating problem demands swift and serious intervention from educators, health professionals, policymakers, and communities. Mental health awareness must be systematically integrated into school curricula. Educational institutions should hire qualified counselors and regularly conduct well-being workshops to equip students with coping skills. Families, too, must be better informed and supported to provide emotional guidance and safe spaces for their children at home.
Neglecting this issue today will lead to significant long-term societal damage. A generation plagued by untreated emotional struggles cannot be expected to thrive, innovate, or lead effectively. Ensuring robust mental health support for youth is not only compassionate-it is essential for the nation's progress, resilience, and future.
Yana Islam Rifa
North South University
yaanarifa25@gmail.com