2 editorials published in last week’s BMJ make bold the
harsh reality for many young people finding their way in the economic recession
which has reshaped the landscape regarding employment, education and training opportunities.
BMJ 2013;347:f5270; BMJ 2013;347:f5612.
In the UK youth unemployment has risen 3x higher than the
overall employment rate. High rates of joblessness are associated with
increased rates of suicide, especially in men and young people. Job insecurity
and decreased earnings impact on relationships
and are associated with increased alcohol consumption (Hawton & Haw, 2013).
Prolonged economic inactivity has profound effects on mental
health with depression, alcohol or substance misuse and suicidal attempts significantly
increased (Scott et al, 2013).
It is incumbent on all of us who talk with young people in a
professional capacity to be mindful of the external factors which shape so
powerfully their inner worlds and impact directly on sense of self and
well-being.
Tomorrow the second
International Association of Youth Mental Health opens and there will be a
broad and multi-disciplinary discussion and debate on all aspects of youth
mental health both nationally and globally.
Follow the discussions on #IAYMH2013
Check out the website www.iaymh2013.com
Best wishes
Jane Roberts
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