Despite mental health being one of the most neglected facets of youth development, it is an important aspect of overall well-being. Young people frequently handle adolescence with resilience, but their mental health suffers greatly as a result of numerous obstacles from society, education, and the rapidly changing world. To empower the next generation, we at the South African Association of Youth Clubs (SAAYC) understand that mental health cannot be disregarded.
The rise of mental health issues
Youth in South Africa and many other countries are increasingly dealing with challenging issues such as isolation, anxiety, and depression. This increasing trend is extremely worrisome. Financial stress, family difficulties, social media, and school pressure are some of the main causes of these mental health disorders. Many young people struggle with anxiety, depression, and some of them tragically lose their lives as a result of these complexities, according to a study by mental health professionals. Between 10% and 20% of youth are significantly impacted by mental health issues. This concerning statistic emphasizes how important it is to address stigma and give mental health support and legislation a top priority.
Teenagers in particular frequently experience difficulties as a result of unstable mental health. Many young people suffer from emotional or behavioural complexes, academic failure, and, in extreme situations, substance abuse or self-harm. SAAYC is committed to taking immediate action to establish safe spaces where youth can talk about their challenges, listen to one another, and get the support they require.
The impact of stigmas and academic pressure
Although academic achievement is frequently viewed as the key to a bright future, young people’s mental health may also suffer from stigma which is surrounded by sexual identities, societal norms, and religious or parental pressures. Many young people experience rejection or non-acceptance due to gender identity or sexual orientation which can lead to stress, depression, and anxiety. A culture of fear surrounding judgment is frequently brought about and prevents them from seeking the help they need. Their mental health is troubled by the weight of these stigmas, combined with societal and familial expectations.
We at SAAYC have personally seen the effects of these difficulties. Mental health conditions like excessive anxiety, stigma, and low self-esteem are significant obstacles to young people’s development of the leadership and capacity we aim to foster. For this reason, we give mental health a lot of weight in the programmes we provide.
Addressing youth mental health
To meet the needs of the young people we serve, SAAYC has launched several initiatives such as Social Entrepreneurship in response to the escalating mental health crisis. Young people can freely talk about their mental health issues in our youth clubs without worrying about being stigmatised. These programmes promote well-being and a sense of belonging by providing resources, peer support, and guidance.
Mental health education is one of the main pillars of our programmes. We can reduce the occurrence of mental health issues by increasing awareness and giving young leaders the tools they need to cope with stress and anxiety. We can also make sure that the right mental health specialists are contacted when young people require specialised care.
The long-term impact of untreated mental health conditions
Untreated mental health conditions in young people can have disastrous long-term consequences. Unresolved issues in adolescence frequently lead to more serious issues in adulthood, such as relationship issues, substance misuse, and self-harm. Young people who are depressed are more likely to quit school and participate in risky behaviours, according to studies.
However, many young people are still discouraged from getting the help they require because of stigmas associated with mental health. They frequently suppress their feelings rather than seek help, which exacerbates their conditions and makes recovery even more challenging.
Youth mental health is a serious problem that needs to be addressed right away. At SAAYC, we think it’s important to give young people the tools they need to recognise and manage their mental health issues. Mental health is a social as well as an individual concern. South Africa has the chance to give its young people’s mental health a top priority and foster an atmosphere that encourages development.
Together, let’s support youth mental health and give them the tools they need to succeed, both emotionally and intellectually.
By Mthandeni Mbhele, SAAYC Board Member
