As world leaders gather for the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) this week at the UN Headquarters in New York, the global community has an opportunity to take crucial steps. With six years left until 2030, we must accelerate our efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
With only 17% of targets currently on track, we need urgent action. At the heart of these efforts lies an often-overlooked dimension: youth mental health.
Young people are the driving force behind a sustainable future but are disproportionately impacted by global challenges. Yet, as the SDGs stall, many young people risk being left behind, with poor mental health exacerbating their vulnerability. Poor mental health impacts access to education and economic opportunities while taking a toll on physical health in the long term.
The Role of Youth Mental Health in Advancing the SDGs
Mental health is not a standalone issue; it is deeply intertwined with every aspect of the SDG agenda. From reducing inequalities to promoting decent work, sustainable cities, and climate action – mental health plays a critical role.
In collaboration with our partners at United for Global Mental Health, we’re proud to introduce a new report: Empowering Futures: The Role of Youth Mental Health in Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.
The report outlines how more significant investment in youth mental health can accelerate progress across various goals. It highlights the direct relationship between youth mental health and the SDGs, such as quality education, reduced inequalities, and good health and wellbeing.
Spotlighting insights from young people and their communities
Drawing on insights from the Being Initiative’s country consultations and landscape analysis conducted across 13 countries, the report also spotlights pressing challenges and opportunities for youth mental health in Colombia, Ecuador, Egypt, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Morocco, Pakistan, Romania, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, and Vietnam.
Mental health is a prime example of why intersectoral collaboration is crucial. We must recognize the relationship between mental health and sustainable development to achieve the SDGs.
As the 79th UNGA provides a platform for global leaders to revisit and accelerate SDG progress, this new briefing report by Being and United for Global Mental Health is a powerful reminder that investing in youth mental health is an opportunity to create a better, more sustainable future for all.
