In the interview, Krol says that he is seeing mental health problems among young people increase enormously, something that is also supported by various studies: “Young people experience a great deal of stress about things such as school; some put this pressure on themselves, while others experience it because of their environment. They feel uncertain about their future due to changes in the economy and the climate, but social media also plays a major role, as does the feeling that they constantly have to be ‘on’ and remain continuously connected with others. They often take their smartphones to bed, which also affects their sleep.”
Krol often hears from students that they would like to learn more about this, including at school. “Such a lesson could be informative, offering tips about nutrition, sleep and exercise, how to keep a diary and how to write down negative thoughts, as well as scientific information. Many young people feel that they are the only ones struggling with this; for them, it can help to know that they are not alone.”
Krol indicates that mental health is still a taboo for some children. “They do not learn about it at home. For them, such lessons are very valuable. Some young people come to my consultation with physical complaints, but these turn out to be the effects of chronic stress. I am particularly concerned that some young people have few opportunities to talk about it.”
Source: AD.