The survey, titled ‘Health Behavior in School-Age Children’, is based on data collected from approximately 2,80,000 youth aged 11, 13, and 15 in 44 countries. The report highlights the growing threat to the health and well-being of adolescents.
Highlights the issue that girls and economically disadvantaged adolescents are most affected by. Dr Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, said: “Today’s adolescents are facing unprecedented challenges in their social environment. This can have long-term consequences for their health and future prospects.” The findings of this report are a wake-up call that we must take urgent action to improve the conditions our young people are growing up in. “Decline in family support” Of Support is important, yet the report found a worrying decline in both. Between 2021 and 2022, only 68 percent of teens felt supported by their families, compared to 73 percent in 2018. The decline was even steeper for girls. Only 64 percent felt strong family support, compared to 72 percent in 2018. Support from classmates also declined by three percent. This decline was particularly pronounced among older teens, who are already more vulnerable to mental health challenges. The report shows that socioeconomic status plays a significant role in shaping the experiences of teens, with less There is a 9 per cent gap in income between teenagers from affluent families and those from affluent families. This difference is also seen in relationships with classmates, with teenagers from disadvantaged backgrounds more likely to receive support from their friends or classmates. It remains less. Increasing stress in the classroom. Academic pressure is increasing, which is having a serious impact on the mental health of teenagers. During the study, two-thirds of 15-year-old girls reported feeling extremely stressed by schoolwork. This is much higher than 54 percent in 2018. Boys also reported increased pressure, although the rates were relatively lower among boys. “Increasing pressure on adolescents is a multifaceted issue,” said Dr. Irene Garcia-Moya. Girls are often torn between expectations for academic excellence and traditional social roles. feel trapped, while boys are often under pressure to appear strong and independent, making them hesitant to ask for the support they need.” The report also found that girls are less likely to “This report highlights a serious and growing gap in support systems for adolescent girls,” warned Dr Natasha Azzopardi-Muscat, director of national health policies and systems for Europe at the World Health Organization. “They not only face increasing pressures from school, but also receive less support from family and teachers.” Recommendations for action Dr Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director, said: “It is clear from our report that no one sector or industry can face these challenges alone.” She said the report emphasizes the need for immediate, coordinated efforts. “Creating safer and more inclusive school environments, providing financial support as needed, and implementing gender-sensitive measures are all important,” she said. “This requires the involvement of multiple sectors of education, health and public policy.” Key recommendations introduce policy measures targeted at families to strengthen family support, such as Special programs for children and financial assistance for low-income families. Apart from this, it is also important to reduce the pressure in schools. The authors recommend schools adopt more balanced homework policies, reduce class sizes, and integrate mental health supports into the curriculum. Additionally, address inequities through social policies and programs that prioritize marginalized communities. Giving is important.