Youth Mental Health Day 2022 #YMHD

Find out what Youth Mental Health Day 2022 is, why it’s important and how you can get involved!

What is Youth Mental Health Day?

Youth Mental Health Day is on 22nd September 2022 and aims to get young people, and those around them, to talk about how to improve mental health. Each year, everybody (not just young people) is encouraged to understand and discuss youth mental health, creating happier and healthier lives. Mental health is something we all need to get comfortable thinking about and expressing on a regular basis, but having space to explore wellbeing on mental health awareness days is a great place to start.

Why is Youth Mental Health Day important?

Mental health concerns for young people are increasing, especially with the continued effects of the Coronavirus and the impact of the current cost of living crisis. According to stem4, 1 in 6 young people aged 5-16 have a diagnosable mental health disorder, yet only a third of those young people have access to effective treatment.

By getting young people to discuss their mental health, Youth Mental Health Day aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health, give young people a voice, and help young people take positive steps towards improving their mental health and wellbeing.

How can you get involved?

Use the hashtag #ConnectMeaningfully

This year’s Youth Mental Health Day is focusing on the importance of our connections and relationships. Young people are invited to reflect on how their relationships have changed over the past couple of years and share how they can connect more meaningfully in future. Use the hashtag #ConnectMeaningfully to share your story and get involved with the discussion.

Visit the Mental Health hub

The Youth Voice Census 2022 results have told us that young people have growing feelings of anxiety and isolation, despite being better connected in the digital world.

Visit the Mental Health hub to find advice and tips surrounding the world of work, exam stress, ways to take care of your mental health, and dealing with your emotions.

Download the stem4 resources

You can download resources and information, including social media packs to help get the word out there. There are discussion points and activities for schools, tips for adults and workplaces, and a guide for young people full of tips to build relationships and navigate more difficult situations.