A global team of psychiatrists, psychologists, and academics has published a groundbreaking report on youth mental health in The Lancet. The report, called the Lancet Psychiatry Commission on Youth Mental Health, highlights the urgent need to address the rising mental health crisis among young people worldwide. This comprehensive analysis took four years to complete and includes contributions from experts across five continents.
Youth Mental Health as a Global Priority
Professor Patrick McGorry, the lead author and Executive Director of Orygen, stressed the importance of this report in recognizing youth mental health as a critical global health issue. He said, “This report is the first of its kind to provide a complete overview of youth mental health worldwide. It makes a strong case for more investment in research, better models of care, and increased access to mental health services for young people everywhere.”
The report reveals a staggering statistic: mental health issues now account for 45% of health problems in those aged 10 to 24, making it the biggest threat to the well-being of young people. However, despite this alarming figure, only 2% of global health budgets are allocated to mental health, highlighting a significant gap in addressing the crisis.
Causes Behind the Rise in Mental Health Issues
The Commission’s report also explores the factors driving the increase in mental health issues among youth. It examines the impact of social media, climate change, and other stressors on young people’s mental well-being. Additionally, the report discusses the best ways to support young people in countries with varying levels of resources.
Professor Srividya Iyer from McGill University, a senior author of the report, emphasized that even in wealthy countries, many young people do not receive the mental health care they need. She noted, “The world has not invested enough in mental health, especially for young people, who are crucial for the future of our societies.”
The report was a collaborative effort involving 54 authors, including 10 youth commissioners. It was led by Professor Patrick McGorry and co-edited by Professors Killackey, Iyer, Dr. Christina Mei, and Dr. Naeem Dalal.
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