Understanding and Addressing Youth Mental Health: Challenges and Strategies
Yadav, Mudita
Disability Rehabilitation Professional, Educationist, and Activist, New Delhi
Abstract
The tumultuous phases of adolescence and early adulthood, marked by a whirlwind of physiological, emotional, and psychological changes, form the foundation of an individual’s identity and resilience. This research paper unfolds an intricate narrative—a deep exploration of the multifaceted realm of youth mental health. The weight of academic expectations, the ebb and flow of peer dynamics, the intricate tapestry of familial relationships, and the ever-present societal benchmarks all contribute to the complex matrix of factors that either nourish or erode youth mental health. The urgency of unraveling this complexity stems from an ethical imperative and a pragmatic realization—the mental well-being of our youth not only shapes individual destinies but also reverberates through the very fabric of our society. We confront not only the challenges but also the barriers that obstruct young individuals from seeking assistance. The stubbornness of stigma erects barriers that hinder vulnerable youth from accessing the support they deserve. Limited awareness of available resources and concerns about confidentiality compound these obstacles, creating a chasm between struggling youth and the avenues of aid. These barriers compel us to devise strategies that erode stigma, propagate awareness, and build bridges towards confidential and accessible mental health support.
Keywords: Mental health, adult, anxiety, youth, well-being.
Impact Statement
Understanding and addressing youth mental health, along with the challenges and strategies involved, has a profound and transformative impact on our society. By delving into the complexities of this issue, we unlock the potential to create a more resilient and empathetic future for our young generation. This mission goes beyond improving individual well-being; it has broader implications for society. As we comprehend the multifaceted factors that affect youth mental health, we are not only nurturing healthier individuals but also fostering a culture of empathy and support. By tackling this issue head-on, we equip our youth to become more innovative and capable of overcoming life’s challenges. Our commitment to youth mental health signifies a dedication to the overall well-being and vibrancy of our society. This focus on the younger generation amplifies our capacity to drive lasting positive change in our communities and beyond, shaping a brighter future for all.
About The Author
Presently: Inclusive Education Department, KRM-Delhi, As an Educational Counsellor & Special Educator she works with children and young people who are experiencing problems that hinder their successful learning and participation in school and other activities. Her area of expertise includes:
• Carrying out observations, questionnaires interviews and assessments to identify needs and
offer a range of appropriate interventions to overcome mental health issues. Including
learning programmers, behavior management strategies, relaxation techniques and
collaborative work with teachers, parents &community at large.
• Her work involves consultation with parents, teachers, social workers, doctors, andother
people involved in the child’s education in a variety of ways.
• She also provides preservice & in-service training for teachers, teaching assistants, parents
and other professionals on issues such as behavior, child rights, harassment at workplace,
teaching strategies, classroom management, inclusive practices, stress management, learning
disabilities, drug de addiction, POCSO and many more.
• Field research and advising on educational provisions and policies.
Achievements and key skills
• National Resource person in RCI approved conferences and seminars.
• Program advisor &coordinator for the Special Education Department in Pranab
Mukherjee Foundation.
• Consultant and Speaker for the rights of CWSN.
• Committee member of Stress Management team in NCPCR.
• Consultant member in counselling team of Jawahar Navodya samiti.
• Advisor & Consultant in EDMC schools in India.
• Actively linked with the Ministries, National institutes, and agencies working in the field
of Education & Disability for Social Inclusion.
• Consultant team member in the National Guidelines Framework under Ministry of Human
Resources and Development.
• Resource Person and Visiting Faculty in National institutes and NGOs working in the field
of Disability.
• Conducted CBR and several women and child empowerment programs with various NGOs
• Resource person to conduct workshops in CWSN for Indo Tibetan Schools by Directorate
of Education.
• Conducted several workshops and teacher training programs all over India like KVS, KR
Mangalam, FDRC, DPS, SCERT, NGOs and Other Govt Institutes.
• Organized National & International level Conferences with Govt. of India as CRE
Coordinator.
• Resource Person and Counselor for NCC Head Office conducted workshops
• Designated Resource Person for capacity Building Program by CBSE across the globe.
• Consultant Counsellor &Special Education professional in Moolchand Hospital, New
Delhi.
Awards & accolades
• Nominated as a Nodal officer by Election Commission
• Resource person for NCERT, Doordarshan / Educational channel
• Nominated Member in Peace Committee by Delhi Minority Commission
• CBSE – Examination Committee Member.
• Designated Resource Person and Master Trainer in CBSE
• Member in International council of Education, Research & Training.
• National Betiya Gaurav award presented by Sh Shyam jaju under Best Rehabilitation
Professional Category.
• Award for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, (Innovative practices) in Special
Education presented by Sh Ramdas Athwaley, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment .
• Award for Social Inclusion & Philanthropic services presented by Sh Yogender Paswan,
Member, National Commission for scheduled castes.
• Association with Drug Free World & Nasha MuktBharat.
• Registered in Rehabilitation Council of India.
• Received (Rashtriya Gaurav Samman) National Award for Exemplary work in Disability
sector, NYAFI, Govt of India
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