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EUROPEAN MENTAL HEALTH WEEK, 9th-13th MAY 2022


Mental health affects all of us at every stage of our lives. By talking openly about mental health, let's help young people live better lives and have brighter futures. Everyone should have access to mental health services. Are you prepared to act now? Come celebrate European Mental Health Week with us!


Mental Health Europe (MHE) is hosting the third edition of the European Mental Health Week on 9th-13th May 2022. We care about mental health and this year's theme ‘Speak up for mental health’ will shine the spotlight on youth mental health as a high-profile societal issue now and in the foreseeable future.





Did you know? Quick facts about mental health

  • Young people’s mental health was heavily impacted during the last two years due to the pandemic.

  • Mental health problems among young people (15–24-year-olds) have doubled in 2020-2021.

  • Nine million adolescents in Europe (aged 10-19) experience mental health problems.

  • Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people in Europe.

  • A vulnerable group, young people are 30% to 80% more likely to report experiences of depression or anxiety in contrast to adults.

  • Young people’s mental health needs are not supported early enough and often only at a stage of the crisis.


Did you know that during the pandemic, approximately two-thirds of young people could experience problems with their mental health and wellbeing? The results of our study, which were summarized in the report "Beyond Lockdown: the 'pandemic scar' on young people," highlight the significant social, economic, and mental health barriers and challenges that young people are facing as a result of the pandemic and how those issues are interconnected.



Young people’s poor mental health and wellbeing during the pandemic are also likely to worsen their employment and educational prospects in the long-term. Now, with another economic crisis on the horizon, as well as the unfolding humanitarian crisis caused by the war in Ukraine, we are facing more uncertainty and fear. In spite of that, there are still not enough national policy responses supporting young people’s mental health. Immediate action at the European and national levels is crucial to address the mental health needs of young people in Europe.


This pan-European campaign aims to increase awareness of the value of good mental health in our daily lives by building on the long-standing global tradition of recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month in May. We know that youth unemployment, low-quality jobs, poor educational outcomes, and poor mental health are all significantly connected.


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