High Commissioner Türk on World Mental Health Day: Young people need support in a world in disarray

Our world is facing a silent crisis that affects one in eight people, and can be deadly.

This is the global crisis in mental health – a crisis that is largely unaddressed, even when seen and known.

It costs societies happiness, cohesion, lives, and billions in economic losses – yet gets just crumbs from public budgets.

Young people, with their passion, creativity, solidarity, and deep care for the world – the very qualities that drive progress and social change – are particularly vulnerable. Most mental health conditions begin before the age of 25.

For our new report, my Office asked some 4,000 young people across regions about their mental health, and found widespread anxiety, depression, burnout, loneliness, and trauma.

Many pointed to the state of our world as the major source of their distress. And little wonder.

Today's generation is going through its formative years surrounded by increasing tensions and conflict; the climate crisis; democratic backsliding; surging inequalities; and uncontrolled technological change.

Social media platforms profit from addiction and hatred – at the expense of young people's health, learning, and relationships.

In my work, I often speak with young people and have seen for myself how little faith many have in the direction our world is taking.

And they are often left alone with their thoughts and their fears, prevented from discussing them by stigma and shame.

Mental health conditions may affect our minds first and foremost, but their impact is felt far and wide.

They rob people of their rights: to study, to work, to participate – and sometimes, to live. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among youth globally.

So how do we keep this crisis from spreading?

We need to invest in inclusive healthcare systems – for everyone.

The right to health is a human right, and mental health is an integral component – not an optional add-on.

The digital environment is critical for young people – to learn, to connect, and to thrive. But to fulfil this role, online spaces and digital tools must be safe by design.

Approaches rooted in community, that come from the ground up, are particularly effective in ensuring young people's participation, dignity, autonomy, and trust.

Young people living through conflict, young people with disabilities, migrants, refugees, and LGBTIQ+ people often need more strength – and more support – to cope with the trauma and exclusion they may face every day.

And my generation needs to do better, to leave them a better world.

On this Mental Health Day and every day, let’s be more attentive to the children and young people around us.

Let’s ask how they are feeling – and truly listen to what they have to say.

And let’s ensure they never feel alone.