Mental Health: Empowering Young People to Thrive

At EMpower, mental health is a cornerstone of overall well-being, especially for the most marginalised young people. Faced with socio-economic challenges, inequalities, and the ongoing pressures of a rapidly changing world, young people facing marginalisation are often more vulnerable to the impacts of mental health challenges. We create spaces where young people who are struggling are supported to thrive by addressing mental health challenges comprehensively and building resilience in the face of adversity. 

When young people are equipped with the tools to manage stress, trauma, and mental health challenges, they are better positioned to succeed in school, participate in the workforce, become leaders in their communities and lead healthy, fulfilling lives. 

Our programmes integrate mental health support with other key areas, such as inclusive learning, economic wellbeing and safe, and healthy lives. 

We work to normalise conversations around mental health, reducing stigma and creating safe spaces where young people feel supported. 

By engaging young people directly in designing and delivering mental health programmes, we ensure that the solutions are relevant, effective, and empowering for their peers. 

Our report, Heeding the Call: Insights from Young People and Organisations to Advance Adolescent Mental Health in South Africa, explores the unique challenges faced by youth and shares perspectives from local organisations and young people on effective, community-based solutions. It highlights the need for early support, resilience-building, and reducing stigma, offering actionable insights to improve mental health outcomes for adolescents. Our report has recently been translated into Spanish and is available here. 

The Broader Impact of Mental Health Support 

By addressing the mental health needs of young people in emerging markets, EMpower contributes to a ripple effect of positive change. When youth are mentally and emotionally resilient, they are more likely to:

• Stay in school and improve academic performance: Mental health challenges are one of the leading causes of school dropout rates in emerging markets. Supporting mental health ensures that young people can focus on their education and reach their full potential.
• Access employment opportunities: Emotional well-being is critical for thriving in the workplace. When young people are equipped to handle stress and manage their mental health, they are more likely to secure and retain employment.
• Improve their physical health: Mental health is crucial in ensuring physical health. When young people are supported to be mentally and emotionally well, they are able to make better decisions regarding their physical health specifically in the context of SRHR.
• Strengthen their communities: Youth who receive mental health support become leaders and advocates for change. They help break the cycle of stigma, create awareness, and build stronger, more resilient communities. 

Also check out this storymap illustrating our insights and learning alongside the many ways our partners are supporting young people’s mental health.