The rising incidence of mental health disorders among children and adolescents is an alarming crisis. Depression, anxiety, ADHD and suicidal thoughts are becoming increasingly prevalent. In the United States, one in five children suffers from a mental health disorder, while in Switzerland it is one in three. In the European Union, suicide is now the leading cause of premature death among young people aged 15 to 19. This trend requires immediate action and a systemic change in the way we raise and think about child development.
Institutionalized childcare: Early and extensive use of daycare for children under three years of age increases stress levels and can lead to behavioral problems, anxiety, depression and ADHD. Daycare is often part of an agenda to get more women back into the workforce quickly, but this can be detrimental to children's development.
Absence of parents: Children need their parents' physical and emotional presence, especially during the critical developmental periods from 0-3 years of age and during adolescence (9-25 years of age). Parental presence is crucial for children's safety and development.
Parents' mental health: Children need mentally healthy parents who can regulate their own emotions and be supportive. Parents who struggle with their own mental health may find it difficult to give their children the support they need.
Lack of stability and community: Stable families and a supportive network, including grandparents, aunts, uncles, and religious communities, are important for children's development. Both mothers and fathers play unique and important roles in children's lives.
Excessive use of technology: Smartphones and social media have a negative impact on children's mental health. Excessive screen time can lead to increased stress and isolation.
To reverse the crisis of mental illness among children and young people, we must focus on strengthening families, promoting parenting, limiting the use of technology, and adapting healthcare to meet the needs of children and families. Children are born neurologically vulnerable and need the security of attachment to caregivers to develop robust mental health. Early use of daycare should be avoided whenever possible, and parents must be mentally healthy and present for their children.
Society must support families and value parental care to reverse the negative trend of increasing mental disorders among children and adolescents. It must value upbringing and family over materialism and career pursuits. The role of parenting should be seen as an important and valuable task.
Authorities and employers must provide parents with the opportunity to raise their own children, with financial and social support. This could include flexible working hours and financial incentives.
Healthcare must focus on prevention and early intervention, and offer families support and guidance. Early intervention can prevent the development of serious mental disorders.
Religious and other communities must play an active role in supporting families and preventing mental illness. Communities can offer support and resources to families in need.
Parents must take responsibility for their children's mental health and seek help for themselves and their children. It is important for parents to be present and involved in their children's lives. Children need a childhood with limited use of technology. Parents should also set clear limits on screen time and encourage activities that promote physical and mental health.
By implementing these measures, we can create a society where children and young people thrive and develop into healthy, resilient adults.
For more information on this important topic, we recommend viewing the presentation Erica Komisar had during the conference in Germany with the Alliance for Responsible Citizenship in 2024.
