By: Madina Ikramovna Hakimova
Introduction:
In today’s era of globalization, life has become easier in many ways. Technologies have developed, the flow of information has intensified, and opportunities have expanded. But has external progress managed to eliminate internal issues? Unfortunately, no. Especially among young people, mental health problems are becoming more widespread. Every day on social media, in the news, and in real life, we encounter youth who appear healthy on the outside but are broken, lonely, and depressed on the inside. They do not speak of their pain because society still chooses to ignore this suffering. Untreated mental health issues threaten not only individuals but also the well-being and progress of entire communities. That’s why this issue is one of the most pressing problems of our time.
Today’s youth are the foundation of tomorrow. Their knowledge, health, and worldview shape the future. However, one critical aspect of this foundation is increasingly neglected: the mental health of youth. Most of the time, when we speak of health, we think of physical illnesses. But the human psyche, inner world, and emotions require care and attention just like physical health. Nowadays, anxiety, loneliness, depression, lack of self-confidence, and feelings of hopelessness are common among youth. Surprisingly, many people dismiss these as mere “bad moods.” In reality, these may be warning signs.
The fast pace of modern life, the pressures of the digital world, the pursuit of idealized lives shown on social media, and excessive expectations from parents and society all place immense pressure on the minds of young people. Every harsh word, lack of attention, comparison, or criticism leaves invisible but deep scars on their mental state.
According to statistics from the World Health Organization, one in five adolescents worldwide suffers from a mental health issue. Suicide ranks among the leading causes of death among youth in many countries. This shows the need to address mental health at a societal level.
Main Part:
Mental health is a person’s emotional stability, satisfaction with life, self-confidence, and the ability to build healthy relationships with others. Even if they appear healthy on the outside, many young people are mentally exhausted, feel hopeless, and have lost direction. What are the roots of this problem?
- Social Pressure:
Young people feel compelled to become perfect in all aspects—academics, work, appearance. Any mistake is labeled as “failure” or “weakness.”
- Internet and Social Media:
Seeing only the “highlight reels” of others’ lives on social media leads young people to compare themselves, which breeds insecurity, envy, and depression.
Family and Environmental Misunderstanding:
A child who isn’t allowed to express themselves retreats into their own world. Phrases like “You’re a boy, don’t cry!” or “Don’t overthink it!” further suppress them emotionally.
- Lack of Psychological Support:
In many families and schools, discussing psychological problems is seen as shameful or unnecessary. This deepens the issue.
Mental health is a key indicator of quality of life. Without emotional stability, a person’s ability to learn, work, or contribute to society diminishes. Unfortunately, today’s youth face inner turmoil that is often overlooked. This poses a threat not only to one generation but to the stability of society as a whole.
Today’s youth are sensitive and emotional, yet live under constant pressure. While technological advancement provides new opportunities, it also brings psychological risks. Every young person seeks purpose and a place in society. However, on this journey, they encounter invisible barriers such as depression, loneliness, and neglect. To overcome these obstacles, they need not only education but also understanding and emotional support.
Therefore, mental health should be regularly discussed in schools, colleges, universities, and families. Environments where youth can openly seek help must be created. Promoting psychological awareness is a necessity of our time. The belief that “asking for help is not weakness, but strength” must be instilled in every heart.
Parents must learn to understand their children not only through their grades or achievements but also through their feelings and moods. Teachers should monitor students’ mental well-being and strive for sincere communication. And most importantly, every individual must learn to see the loneliness behind someone’s smile and hear the cry behind their silence.
If we learn to listen to and understand our youth, our society will be healthier. Never forget: emotional pain is invisible, but if left untreated, it can lead to the gravest consequences. Every young soul is a universe. Protecting this universe with care and compassion is our human duty.
Madina Ikramovna Hakimova is a first-year student of the General Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alfraganus University.
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