Young people and children are calling on EU decision-makers for safer spaces, stronger support systems, and better access to mental health care.
At a recent roundtable hosted by SOS Children’s Villages, four children and young people from Croatia, South Sudan, Italy, and Ukraine shared their hopes for a future where mental health is prioritized—urging leaders to listen, act, and ensure that every young person feels seen, supported, and safe.
Mental health challenges continue to significantly affect children and young people across the European Union. Over 11 million children and young people aged 19 and younger (13%) in the EU suffer from a mental health condition.
“Behind the numbers are real children and young people, each with their own struggles and dreams,” said Gatwech, 20, from South Sudan, now living in Sweden. “We need policies and support systems that make them feel seen, understood, and cared for.”
Ana, 27, from Croatia highlighted accessibility, saying, “We should ensure free, accessible, and quality mental health support for everyone.”
Gatwech and Ana were among the young people speaking at the roundtable event held in Brussel last month titled, “Mental health: a foundation for resilient societies - Effective early interventions reaching children, youth, and families at risk.”
The event brought together stakeholders to discuss how best to support vulnerable children and young people, especially those facing precarious socio-economic conditions or living in alternative care.
Hosted by newly elected Member of the European Parliament, Veronika Cifrova Ostrihonova, along with SOS Children’s Villages’s EU Representation office, the roundtable featured representatives from the European Commission, the World Health Organization, EU Member States, civil society organizations, and SOS Children’s Villages’ Global Programme Expert Group on mental health.
Concrete actions to improve mental health
In June 2023, the European Commission (EC) launched a comprehensive approach to mental health, with a focus on concrete actions to improve the mental wellbeing of EU citizens, including children and young people. SOS Children’s Villages organized the roundtable to ensure the voices of children and young people were heard, as well as to promote recommendations developed with the input of young people.
Giulia, 18, of Italy, emphasized the dual nature of social media, saying, “Social media can be a resource, but it’s also a threat to our wellbeing if not used with the right intentions.”
Yuliana, 16, of Ukraine living currently in Italy, stressed the importance of emotional safety, advocating for, “a safe space where young people can openly discuss their feelings and experiences.”
SOS Children’s Villages remains committed to working with EU institutions to prioritize the mental wellbeing of children and young people, especially those at higher risk of developing mental health issues due to their living conditions or placement in alternative care.