Young people speak up about mental health

Healthwatch South Tees (Middlesbrough and Redcar and Cleveland) undertook research about the mental health needs of young people as it was a local and national priority.  They wanted to explore what local young people identified as factors that have a negative impact on their mental health, as well as preventative solutions. They spoke to 491 young people under the age of 25.

Stress and pressure were most frequently mentioned by young people as the top causes of poor mental health. Support, help and talking were most frequently advocated to prevent mental health problems. Schools, including teachers, were a major factor contributing to poor mental health for young people. Bullying was the second most significant cause of poor mental health with many references to schools as highlighted previously. Social media was raised as a concern causing poor mental health for young people. Family was the third most important causal factor raised, particularly family bereavements, upbringing and childhood experiences.  The report goes on to look at the differing experiences of different age groups.

There were no recommendations, but Healthwatch South Tees expresses the hope that these views and experiences can be used to influence and shape local decisions in improving mental health care and support for young people, relative to their needs and priorities.