Summary

The latest report by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) focuses on youth mental health and well-being. The authors stress that mental health is not only a medical issue, but also a socio-economic factor that directly affects educational outcomes, labour productivity, social integration, and the long-term development of human capital. A survey of 2,949 young respondents aged 15–29 shows that declining mental health is closely linked to unemployment, poverty, social isolation, limited access to social services, and a hostile digital environment. The report highlights that these drivers are strongly interconnected and produce a cumulative effect. In addition, responses indicate that a significant share of young people do not seek professional support even when experiencing psychological distress. Key barriers include social stigma, financial constraints, and limited availability of relevant services. UN DESA recommends prioritising youth mental well-being by improving access to education and employment opportunities and actively involving young people in the design and implementation of support programmes.