Young Peoples’ Experiences of Mental Health in Croydon

During Mental Health Week 2019, Healthwatch Croydon undertook research about young people’s experience of mental health. They spoke to 146 young people about their experiences of mental health.   They found:

• Social media, self-image and relationships negatively affect young people’s mental health: These issues contrast with some of the key public information campaigns around crime in Croydon and bullying, which met the lowest responses.
• 19% needed help but did not seek it. This suggests a barrier to access on their part which needs future exploration.
• Females were more likely to need help than males (49% to 22%).
• Of those that had a diagnosis, more than half found it unhelpful.
• Young people felt that increased awareness, professional support and better access to services is needed

There are six recommendations about listening to young people, awareness raising, the need for personalised care, and how young people can be best supported.