Discussions at the Lives in the Balance 2026 forum, organised by the Partnership for Maternal Newborn and Child Health, focused on translating research into practical solutions through stronger investment, policy reform and accessible services.
Bhavya Durgesh, Lead on Adolescent and Youth Health at the organisation, said the scale of the crisis is significant. Durgesh said one in seven young people aged 10 to 19 experiences a mental health disorder, accounting for about 15% of the global disease burden in this age group.
Durgesh said depression, anxiety and behavioural disorders are among the leading causes of illness, while suicide ranks as the third leading cause of death among people aged 15 to 29.
Durgesh warned that failure to address mental health early can lead to long-term consequences that extend into adulthood, affecting well-being, opportunities and quality of life.
Durgesh identified multiple factors driving the crisis, including family environment, economic stress, societal pressures and exposure to violence. Durgesh said issues such as poverty, conflict, climate-related anxiety and rapid growth of social media are interconnected drivers shaping mental health outcomes.
Durgesh highlighted the role of parenting styles, noting that harsh or unresponsive approaches can negatively affect young people. Durgesh said open communication between caregivers and adolescents is essential in creating safe and supportive environments.
Access to care remains a major challenge. Durgesh said stigma continues to prevent many young people from seeking help, while emerging trends such as reliance on social media and artificial intelligence platforms for emotional support may create additional risks.
Durgesh said schools and communities are critical in identifying early warning signs and providing support. Durgesh described schools as an underutilised platform where early intervention can be strengthened through counselling services and information sharing.
Durgesh called for improved coordination between schools, families and communities to ensure adolescents receive timely support. Durgesh said stronger collaboration and targeted interventions are essential to address the growing mental health burden and improve outcomes for young people.
–ChannelAfrica–
