Youth mental health is finally getting the attention it deserves. General surgeonNew instructions for the main New York Times Pieces For a famous person Advocacy. Yet the numbers are still trending in the wrong direction, with alarming increases in depression, anxiety and suicide attempts. As our society comes together to meet this challenge, employers can play a critical role in helping to drive growth.
Youth mental health is in crisis. A Recent research An analysis of more than 80,000 young people worldwide found that symptoms of depression and anxiety doubled during the pandemic. In the year As of early 2021, there were emergency room visits for suspected suicide attempts in the United States. It is 51% higher for adolescent girls Compared to the same period in early 2019.
These trends are unacceptable and unsustainable. From policymakers to filmmakers, leaders are rising to take action. Last June, Hiding in Plain Sight: Adolescent Mental IllnessDocumentary produced and sponsored by Ken Burns One mind, on PBS. The documentary follows the lives of two dozen young people who struggle with mental health and shows the ways they deal with and overcome these obstacles.
However, the discussion on youth mental health has left out one key player: employers. Although we should not connect young people to the workplace Employers can really play an important roleConsidering their networks, resources and influence. Indeed, many organizations are contributing to a larger culture of mental health, working to support younger workers and workers with children.
Consider that Gen. Z equals it 27% of the workforce in OECD countries by 2025. Mental health is a priority for this generation, which means it must be a priority for organizations looking to support and retain the next generation of young workers. There are several strategies employers can take:
· Provide mental health resources to employees and their children. Support focused on children’s mental health It can turn a workplace into a family-friendly information center. This may include programs such as pediatric resources, support groups for working parents, direct education on youth mental health, and mental health support for families.
· Create a culture of safety for employees and their families. If mental health is a priority at work, it is more likely to be seen as a priority by people’s families and networks. Organizational culture It can de-stigmatize mental health issues, normalize and encourage access to help, and support the wellbeing of youth workers and children of workers.
· Continuously evaluate and improve mental health programs. A mind developed a Mental health at work To measure and improve workplace efforts. These indicators can lead to improvements in mental health in the workplace, with positive, positive benefits for youth, children and families.
Workplace mental health is not limited to the workplace. Workers are siblings, parents, friends and partners who are members of critical support networks for their communities and loved ones. Strong mental health and well-being at work can have an impact on families and society as a whole.
The private sector can help move this conversation forward by promoting and protecting youth mental health through their resources, interests and networks. Employers are part of the solution; Now youths must work together with other stakeholders to thrive.