In traditional terms, work-related stress has been considered the primary cause of health issues in adults. However, when we examine research on stress and its impact on health, it becomes evident that a crucial group has been overlooked: young people who have not yet entered the job market.
Societal changes have escalated stress for the youth. Previous generations often had more predetermined life paths. Today, significantly more responsibility and choice rest on individuals' shoulders. Youngsters must make pivotal decisions early on, such as choosing the right high school and achieving good grades to enter their desired institution. Later, they face choices about higher education and career paths. This burden of decisions can cause extreme stress.
The school environment also plays a pivotal role. If teachers experience high workloads and conflicts, it negatively affects students. Bullying is another factor that can significantly impact young people's health.
Additionally, many young individuals worry about climate change, wars, low wages, and the potential need to move abroad for a better future after their studies, further adding pressure.
To comprehend the link between young people's mental health and their future well-being, an integration of research on children and young adults with studies on adult work life is necessary. Life is a continuous journey, and by connecting different research areas, we can better understand how health problems during youth can have long-term consequences.
With this increased knowledge, policymakers and healthcare providers can make more informed decisions and direct their resources to areas where they can make the most significant impact.
The goal is to provide young people with a better start and support them on their way to a healthy and successful adulthood.<br>It's time to recognize the challenge posed by the mental health of young people and take powerful measures to address it!
