A couple of months ago, the Executive Director of UNICEF, Henrietta Fore, spoke about the mental health impacts COVID-19 is having on youth around the world. We would like to share some of her words and messages with you, as they speak directly to the issues that are at the heart of YAM.
“The COVID-19 pandemic — and measures like school closures, lockdowns and physical distancing — have exacted a significant toll on children and young people in every country,” she says. “Their physical health. Their families’ economic health. Their learning and development. Their wellbeing and outlook on the future. And certainly, their mental health.”
She goes on to discuss how all young people are affected, but those living in poorer neighbourhoods and countries, as well as with other disadvantages, are impacted at even higher rates.
“A recent OECD survey of youth organisations found that poor mental health is among the biggest impacts of COVID-19,” she shared. But unfortunately, access to mental health care is a big challenge globally. “In Europe, only about one-third of people suffering from common mental health conditions receive the care they need. In poorer countries, this figure can be as low as five per cent.”
UNICEF is working hard to address mental health challenges for youth, especially in light of COVID-19. “Our upcoming flagship State of the World’s Children report for 2021 will focus entirely on mental health and wellbeing.”
Fore also provided three steps for how we can take action:
- Develop “intervention packages” to support mental well-being – YAM as a school-based program can help!
- Speak out and speak up about mental health support for youth in your communities.
- Share your best practices with others, so we can come together as a global community.
Read Fore’s full address here.