Understanding the emotional wellbeing challenges faced by young people (16–21)

Young people across the UK face a growing range of emotional wellbeing challenges, often shaped by a complex interplay of personal, social, and systemic pressures. Between the ages of sixteen and twenty-one, young people are navigating transitions into adulthood, often without the emotional tools or consistent support needed to manage the weight of these changes.

 

According to the Mental Health of Children and Young People in England 2023 report published by NHS Digital:

 

One in five young people aged 17–19 is now experiencing a probable mental disorder, a figure that has doubled since 2017.

Self-harm and suicidal thoughts are significantly more common in this age group, particularly among girls and gender-diverse young people.

Anxiety and depression remain the most prevalent difficulties, often linked to academic pressure, social isolation, family instability, and trauma.

Young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, care-experienced youth, and LGBTQ+ individuals face disproportionately high rates of emotional distress.

The Office for National Statistics (2023) also reported a continued rise in youth unemployment, which is closely tied to lower life satisfaction and increased mental health difficulties. Furthermore, the impact of social media, particularly related to self-image, comparison, and exposure to harmful content, has been well-documented by Ofcom and the Children’s Commissioner.

At CALMSS, we see these realities every day. Young people often arrive carrying trauma, low self-esteem, identity confusion, or a deep sense of disconnection. Many feel that the systems around them do not understand them, or have failed to offer early, compassionate intervention.

Our trauma-informed, relational approach is designed to meet these challenges head-on, by offering a safe, consistent space where young people are truly heard, supported, and empowered to rebuild trust, regulate emotions, and rediscover their sense of self.