In Spainthe mental health of young people is facing a serious crisis, with suicide becoming the leading cause of non-accidental death in this age group. According to a report from the Spanish Society of Family and Community Medicine (semFYC), the increase in mental health problems in adolescents and young people is alarming, especially after the pandemicwith figures that indicate a significant increase in cases of anxiety, depression and self-harming behaviors.
The figures reflect a worrying reality: the lack of resources and specialized support to care for this vulnerable population. He stigma associated with mental disorders, as well as lack of access to adequate mental health services, contribute to many young people not receiving the necessary help in time.
Risk factors and challenges
Mental health experts at Cabinet Multidisciplinary Want Foundation They highlight that “young people face constant social pressure, derived largely from the excessive use of social networks and academic expectations, which directly impacts their emotional well-being.” This stressadded to the lack of tools to manage their emotions, can lead to episodes of anxiety and depression which in many cases lead to self-harming behavior or suicidal thoughts.
In addition, they emphasize that “the pandemic has been a catalyst for the worsening of mental health in adolescents, by increasing social isolation and reducing contact with their support groups, such as friends and family.” The lack of physical interaction and excessive use of digital devices have increased the feeling of loneliness, one of the main causes of emotional deterioration in young people.
The necessary response to stop the crisis
From the Want Foundationspecialists insist on the importance of a preventive approach: “It is crucial to implement mental health programs in schools and institutes to teach young people to recognize and manage their emotionsas well as offering more agile access to psychological support services.” early intervention is key to prevent the problems of mental health worsen and to provide young people with the necessary tools to face emotional challenges.
Furthermore, experts suggest that health policies They should focus on increasing resources for psychological care. “We need more psychologists and psychiatrists in the health system to effectively care for young people going through these crises. Without an adequate and coordinated response, we risk losing an entire generation due to the lack of emotional and therapeutic support,” they say from the Multidisciplinary Office of the Querer Foundation.
Breaking stigma and promoting communication
One of the biggest barriers to treating the mental health crisis is stigma surrounding psychological disorders. The experts from the Querer Foundation affirm that “it is essential to educate society so that it understands that mental health is as important as physical health, and that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of courage and self-knowledge.
Awareness initiatives and educational campaigns can be powerful tools to reduce stigma and encourage young people to seek help before their problems become critical situations. The Want Foundation is committed to continuing to work to provide support and resources to those who need it most, promoting a more empathetic and conscious society of the challenges that young people face today.
