Today’s youth are experiencing a crisis. The lack of opportunities to develop economically and psychologically is leading to more violence. These acts are often a manifestation of a desire for material goods and power. Youth official Dunia Bakuluea says that this is a direct result of the collapse of the economy, which has left many young people without adequate opportunities to settle down. As a result, many young people remain unmarried well into their thirties.
The number of adolescents who report feeling persistent sadness and hopelessness has risen, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The increase is partly a result of school isolation caused by the pandemic. It also is a result of the fact that some youth are already experiencing high levels of anxiety or depression.
In countries where poverty and unemployment are the norm, youth are more likely to join street gangs, join armed factions, or be drawn into sexual exploitation. Most of the youth in these communities lack the skills needed to contribute to society. As a result, many swell the ranks of low-paid workers. As a result, there is a greater need to address the needs of this large population.
Increasing numbers of youth are contacting NRS to seek help. Whether they’re still living at home or living on the street, these youth are in desperate need of assistance. More than half of youth contacting NRS are under the age of 18, with the average age being seventeen. The NRS reports that the sex industry continues to be a major source of income for youth in crisis.
Increasing numbers of young people are disenchanted with the status quo and are struggling to make ends meet. They often live on the margins of society, eking out a living in the black market, and are exposed to HIV/AIDS and other diseases. There is a serious need for more economic opportunities for young people, particularly in developing countries.
The Youth Crisis Respite Center at North Central Health Care provides therapeutic care for young people who are experiencing a mental health crisis. This program is run by a Medical Director and Clinical Supervisor, and provides 24-hour care in a warm, welcoming environment. Youth can receive evidence-based therapy and skill-building groups to help them cope with their current challenges.
Globalization and increased access to media are creating new global cultures for youth. Some young people are aware of the benefits of living in Western countries. However, the experiences of youth in developing and developed countries is vastly different. In Asia, for instance, the youth population is disproportionately large, with 850 million people aged 10 to 24 living in the region.
Research and community outreach efforts can help address these problems. The Lancaster County Youth Services Center, for example, provides services for adolescents struggling with alcohol and drug abuse. It also offers case management and outreach to families. Highly trained mental health therapists are on staff to provide these services. These services are aimed at preventing the most harmful consequences of youth in crisis.