What affects our mental health and wellbeing?

Factors affecting our mental health

There are lots of things that can make life tough

Young people have told us that the following things affect the way they feel.

• Parental separation: Lots of couples who get divorced or separate have children under the age of 16. The effect that this might have on a young person will depend on how old the child is, how friendly the parents are with each other and the amount of support available from family and friends.
• Worries about the future: Young people become increasingly aware of their developing role as young adults. Concerns about doing well at school, getting a job and being financially secure are areas that can trouble some young people. The ‘Good Childhood Report’ (2018) by The Children’s Society states that ‘pressure to fit in with society’s expectations is making children unhappy’.
• Pressure at school: Increasing pressure of achieving academic success through exams and grades can have an impact on emotional wellbeing for some young people. A report by YoungMinds called ‘Wise Up’ states that 80% of the young people they interviewed felt that exam pressure had significantly impacted on their mental health.
• Peer relationships: Friendship is a very important part of adolescence, helping young people to develop both independence and social identity. Good peer relationships can be a source of great support. However, for some young people relationships during this time can also cause enormous stress.
• Self-image: Young people become increasingly aware of their image and self-identity. Pressure to look or behave in certain ways can place additional pressure on young people. Social media can create extra pressure. ‘The Good Childhood Report’ (2018) says that ‘non-stop comments about appearance are harmful to girl’s wellbeing’ and that ‘outdated gender stereotypes are damaging to boys and girls happiness’.