Challenges Faced by Young People with Fewer Opportunities
A global cross-sectional survey led by Varma et al. (2021) on the subject of mental health during COVID – 19 pandemic supports previous reports that young adults are at an increased risk of poor mental health as a result of the pandemic. That being the case, factors such as loneliness and financial distress are impacting younger individuals more than others. Financial inequalities and associated distress can increase the risk of psychological distress and also prevent people from seeking adequate care.
Findings from studies show higher rates of stress, anxiety, depression and poor sleep by the respondents in the study. 20% of parricipants reported significant distress related to their financial situation, which was associated with both psychological distress and poorer sleep.
Factors such as poor sleep quality, loneliness, resilience and age emerged as mediators of the relationship between stress and mental health, highlighting these as potential areas for targeted interventions.
Younger age-groups were more vulnerable, reporting greater stress, anxiety and depression compared to middle and older age groups.
Moreover young people with pre-existing mental health conditions or substance abuse disorders, individuals from lower-income and/or ethnic minority backgrounds, individuals who identify themselves as LGBTQI+ or gender-diverse and young carers are at particularly high risk (OECD, 2021.)
What’s more, young people from minority ethnic groups are significantly more likely to report symptoms of anxiety and depression and suicidal thoughts (Eurofound, 2021).
When it comes to adolescence, it is important to recognize that it is a period of significant developmental sensitivity for an individual’s mental well-being. It is a crucial period for developing the social and emotional skills, habits and coping strategies that enable mental health, including healthy sleeping patterns, regular exercise, problem-solving and interpersonal skills.
Many risk behaviours, such as use of substances, start during adolescence and can be particularly detrimental to mental health (WHO,2022b).
On top of that, adolescents and young people residing in disadvantaged conditions may have reduced exposure to positive social interactions and increased exposure to crime, substance abuse, disease and injury. Furthermore if they are engaged in criminal behavior or substance abuse the are more likely to face risk factors for poor mental health (Eurofound, 2021).
Abovesaid are followed by the statement made by the World Health Organisation (2012) that says individuals facing a greater degree of exposure to unfavorable circumstances are more prone to developing mental health conditions. Which is why it is important to recognize the impact of challenging or adverse situations on mental health and work towards creating supportive environments and equitable access to resources and care.