UN study: global crisis in youth mental health

For a long time, the prevailing theory was that life satisfaction was highest in youth, declined in middle age, and then increased again. However, a new study commissioned by the UN completely refuted this view.

Now, young people are not at the happiest part of life, but on the contrary, their level of happiness has noticeably decreased.

Young people are experiencing more mental health problems, and despite their limited life experience, they are more likely to experience anxiety and depression.

Isn't youth the happiest time?

According to the study, the happiness index among young people has declined sharply over the past decade. Experts believe that there are several main reasons for this:

The impact of smartphones and social networks - With the increase in Internet use, happiness levels have decreased.
Cyberbullying and the culture of judging by appearance - This is leading to an increase in mental health problems among young people.
The problem of loneliness - Young people spend hours in front of screens, but pay less attention to live communication.

One of the authors of the study, David Blanchflower, says this:
“The problem is that young people spend hours in front of screens, but they meet their friends less and communicate less.”

What are the consequences of the crisis in the mental health of young people?

1. Social consequences
- The level of depression and anxiety among young people is increasing.
- The decline in communication and social relationships is making it difficult for young people to find their place in society.

2. Economic consequences
- Labor productivity may decline, as mental health directly affects work productivity.
- Young people may be more likely to refuse to study and work.

The UN plans to study this issue in more depth on a global scale.

Views on youth happiness need to be reconsidered

- The traditional "U-shaped" theory of happiness does not work today.
- The level of happiness among young people has decreased, and mental health problems have increased.
- Researchers emphasize that the Internet, social networks, loneliness and cyberbullying are the causes of this crisis.
- This situation can seriously affect the economic and social state of society.

Experts emphasize that in order to improve the lives of today's youth, it is necessary to take measures to increase social communication and reduce the impact of the digital environment. Follow “Zamin” news on “Telegram”