The conversation around mental health for children and adolescents is more urgent than ever. Recent reports highlight the increasing prevalence of mental health challenges among young people, with one in five individuals aged 8-25 in England now thought to have a mental health disorder. While some argue that young people should develop greater resilience to navigate modern challenges, others, including Oxfordshire Mind, advocate for a different approach: ensuring that children and adolescents can access the right support systems to foster resilience and well-being.
The Problem with “Just Be More Resilient”
The concept of resilience—the ability to recover quickly from difficulties—is often touted as a solution to the mental health crisis. However, placing the onus on young people to be more resilient risks overlooking the broader systemic issues that influence their mental health. Resilience is not inherent; it is cultivated in environments that offer stability, encouragement, and resources. Expecting young people to “toughen up” without addressing these foundational needs is unrealistic and unfair.
A Perfect Storm of Pressures
Today’s young people face unique and unprecedented challenges. The lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis, social media pressures, and broader societal issues such as climate anxiety have created a “perfect storm” for mental health struggles. These pressures often exceed what resilience alone can mitigate. For example, while social media can foster connection, it can also amplify negative self-perceptions and expose young people to cyberbullying.
As one young person noted in the article, “From social media platforms that make us more isolated and anxious to underfunded mental health services that are on the brink of collapse and a global climate crisis that puts our future at risk – it’s no wonder that young people are struggling to stay positive.”
Support is the Key to Building Resilience
Rather than asking whether children are resilient enough, we should ask whether they have access to sufficient support to become so. Resilience grows through connection and support, not isolation. Schools, families, communities, and broader societal systems all foster environments where young people can develop coping mechanisms and thrive.
At Oxfordshire Mind, we advocate for:
- Early Intervention: Timely support can prevent mental health challenges from escalating into crises. Young people need access to therapeutic services, peer support groups, and educational programs that teach coping strategies.
- Creating Mentally Healthy Environments: Schools and communities should foster safe spaces where young people can share experiences and build social bonds. This includes promoting activities that encourage teamwork, creativity, and physical well-being.
- Addressing Systemic Barriers: Underfunded mental health services and a lack of community resources often leave young people without the support they need. We call for more significant investment in services that provide both clinical and non-clinical support.
- Challenging Stigma: Labelling young people as “lacking resilience” risks perpetuating stigma and minimising the complex challenges they face. A compassionate approach recognises that mental health struggles are not signs of weakness but calls for support.
Building Resilience Together
Resilience is not about facing difficulties alone. It’s about equipping young people with the tools and support networks to navigate life’s challenges. This includes individual coping mechanisms and the backing of family, friends, schools, and community organisations.
Oxfordshire Mind is committed to ensuring that every young person has access to the resources they need to thrive. From early intervention programs to community-based initiatives, we are here to help build a future where young people are empowered, supported, and understood.
Let’s move beyond asking children to “be more resilient” and instead create a society where resilience grows naturally—through connection, compassion, and care.