Help youngsters avert the risk of depression

The revelation that a majority of young people are increasingly becoming depressed is worrying. This should be more prevalent among older folks, as they struggle to make ends meet amid tough economic times.

Children should enjoy themselves in formal and social education. However, a new study has found that one in five youth aged 11 to 25 are depressed.

Researchers say that 25 per cent of those aged between 11 and 25 have moderate to severe depression symptoms, while 21.4 per cent suffer from anxiety. One in five will have had four or more Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). And 22.6 per cent are likely to experience suicidal ideation. This is especially so among those aged 15 years and above.

This is a massive challenge as 55 per cent of the population is under the age of 21. By investing in mental health, experts say, the country can reduce emotional suffering by 30 per cent, improve learning, and save Sh26 billion annually in social costs.

The Aga Khan Brain and Mind Institute study also revealed that five per cent of young people are more likely to suffer from depression. Eight per cent struggle with anxiety, six per cent may experience bullying, especially boys, and 22.6 per cent, mostly those aged 15 and above, are likely to have suicidal thoughts.

This puts young people at a high mental health risk. Adolescents with only one parent have 18 per cent higher adversity scores, while those performing poorly in school are 15 per cent more likely to experience this.

The Ministry of Education plans to begin with 200 schools next year, spending Sh260 million annually to train teachers and impart social and emotional skills to students.

The failure to address ACEs, including neglect, abuse, poverty, and violence, can lead to increased drug and substance abuse, fuelling violence. This is a wake-up call to pay more attention to the adverse consequences and help avert danger.