Mental Health, Youth and Learning Environments

Topic Description

Mental health is an essential part of overall health and well-being. For young people, especially those in school or other learning environments, it plays a big role in shaping their development, relationships, and opportunities for the future. Around the world, depression, anxiety, stress, and other mental health conditions affect millions of young people. These challenges have been worsened by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, bullying, family instability, conflict, poverty, and social media pressures.

According to the World Health Organization, half of all mental health conditions begin by the age of 14, yet most cases go undetected and untreated. Depression is already a leading cause of illness and disability among adolescents, and suicide is among the top five causes of death in young people worldwide.

Without support, youth who face mental health challenges may struggle academically, socially, and emotionally, leading to lifelong effects.

Schools and other learning environments are especially important for addressing these issues. Teachers, counselors, and peers can play a vital role in identifying problems early and providing support. Programs that encourage safe, inclusive, and supportive school cultures help reduce stigma and give young people the confidence to seek help.

Some states have piloted promising initiatives—such as embedding counselors in schools, leveraging digital platforms for tele-mental health, and training teachers in early identification of mental distress. Yet global disparities remain stark, with low- and middle-income countries accounting for the majority of untreated youth. In many countries, however, there are not enough mental health professionals, and resources for young people are limited. Often, cultural stigma or lack of awareness prevents open discussion about mental health.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has made youth mental health a global priority. Its Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan (2013–2030) calls for integrating services into community and primary health care, strengthening promotion and prevention, and scaling up services for vulnerable groups such as adolescents. It promotes early intervention, mental health education, and integration of mental health into primary health care.

Countries are also exploring ways to improve cooperation between health and education systems. For example, training teachers to recognize signs of mental distress, expanding counseling services in schools, and using digital tools for mental health support.

Key questions include: How can WHO member states expand access to mental health services for young people, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where there are less resources? What mechanisms can ensure meaningful cooperation between health and education ministries? How should cultural differences and stigma be addressed in designing interventions? And how can youth voices be included in policy making? Addressing these questions will help ensure that young people everywhere grow up in environments that support both their education and their mental well-being.