Young people

ESRC Centre for Society and Mental Health

Led by: Craig Morgan and Helen Fisher

We know that, in high income countries, mental health problems amongst young people are rising, especially in adolescence. This includes anxiety, depression, self-harm and suicide. Speculation has implied that it is a result of widespread social changes (social media, family set-up, education and work) which is transforming the social contexts of childhood, adolescence and early adulthood.

This programme works with young people themselves to explore the complex interrelationships, vulnerabilities and resiliencies associated with these factors, and track their mental health over time.

Our research focuses on how short-term fluctuations in mental health turn into long-term problems. This will allow us to determine the extent to which recent social transformations explain increased rates of youth mental health problems, and through what mechanisms.