Mental Health Crisis among Youth: A Growing Concern

The world is witnessing a sharp rise in mental health issues among young people, with anxiety, depression, and suicide rates reaching alarming levels. Experts warn that without immediate intervention, an entire generation could suffer long-term psychological consequences.

A Hidden Epidemic

Mental health disorders have always existed, but the pressures of modern life, social media, academic stress, and economic uncertainty have intensified the crisis. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is now a leading cause of disability among young people, and suicide is the second leading cause of death for individuals aged 15-29.

Social media plays a significant role in worsening mental health. While platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter provide connection and entertainment, they also contribute to low self-esteem, cyberbullying, and unrealistic comparisons. Many young people feel pressure to present a “perfect” life online, hiding their struggles from friends and family.

The COVID-19 Effect

The COVID-19 pandemic further worsened the mental health crisis. Lockdowns, school closures, and isolation left many young people feeling lonely and disconnected. A lack of access to in-person therapy and counseling services meant that many suffered in silence.

Studies show that the pandemic triggered a spike in anxiety and depression among teenagers and young adults. Even as societies reopen, the long-term impact on mental health remains a concern.

Barriers to Treatment

Despite growing awareness, mental health services remain inadequate in many parts of the world. Stigma prevents many young people from seeking help, and in some cultures, mental health struggles are dismissed or seen as a sign of weakness.

In developing countries, access to mental health professionals is extremely limited. According to WHO, nearly 75% of people with mental health disorders in low-income nations receive no treatment. Even in wealthier nations, therapy and psychiatric care can be expensive and inaccessible for many families.

The Way Forward

Governments, schools, and healthcare providers must prioritize youth mental health. Schools should implement mental health education programs, and governments must increase funding for counseling services. Parents and guardians also have a crucial role in creating open environments where young people feel safe discussing their struggles.

Technology can also be part of the solution. Teletherapy and mental health apps have made it easier for young people to seek help anonymously. However, these digital solutions should not replace traditional face-to-face therapy.

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Addressing this crisis requires a collective effort from families, educators, policymakers, and society as a whole. The time to act is now—before more young lives are lost to an invisible yet devastating epidemic.

By Bashar Muhammad

GMN Correspondent, Sokoto State