Young people’s experiences of mental health and well-being report | Healthwatch Northyorkshire

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Young people’s experiences of mental health and well-being report

Our latest report outlines the mental health and well-being issues young people face.

We asked young people (16-24) to complete a survey and share their experiences of mental health and well-being, which asked where they would go for support if they needed it. As well as a survey, we undertook focus groups at Harrogate college, and Selby college to gather the views of young people. We also conducted a conversation with mental health therapists at Selby college.

Summary

More than two-thirds (72%) of young people who responded to our survey said they had experienced mental health or well-being issues in the past 12 months. Of the respondents only half said they sought help.

Reasons given for not seeking support included long waiting times to access support; the stigma surrounding mental health; and not knowing where to go. 

Of those who did seek support, most respondents sought help from their GP, talked to friends and family, or got support at their college, school, or university. 

Mental health issues amongst young people are a rising national concern, and this report echoes concerns that young people are facing immense pressures without knowing who or where to turn for support. 

Healthwatch North Yorkshire has provided the opportunity for young people and health professionals to talk openly about their experiences of the NHS service and mental health needs more widely. The views expressed through this project largely mirror my professional experience of working with this age group who sadly, overall feel let down by their experiences within the NHS services so far.

Lorraine Fisher, Counselling and Wellbeing Coordinator at Selby College.

Thank you to everyone who responded to our survey or attended one of our focus groups and contributed feedback; this feedback will be shared with the mental health providers and education providers across North Yorkshire. The more feedback we receive the greater chance we have in influencing change.

Read our full report

Your feedback helps to make healthcare better for everyone.

Share your views with us. What you tell us is kept anonymous, but it makes a real difference.

Write to us: Freepost HEALTHWATCHNORTHYORKSHIRE

Email hello@hwny.co.uk 

Call 01423 788 128

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