Investing in the Next Generation
Youth Mental Health Day on 18 September provides an opportunity to shine a light on the pressures facing young people and how we can support their mental health and wellbeing.
Young people are growing up against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, the cost of living, conflict, job insecurity and concerns about climate change, alongside the everyday pressures of education, relationships and growing up.
Research highlighted by the campaign shows that 53% of young people in the UK feel anxious about their future on a daily basis. Yet there is also reason for optimism. Despite the challenges around them, 70% of young people say they are still determined to achieve their goals.
The message behind Youth Mental Health Day 2026 is therefore not simply about recognising what young people are facing, but helping them to move forward, one step at a time.
Supporting wellbeing
At Blend Youth Project, mental health and wellbeing is an important part of their work with young people throughout the year.
Alongside their weekly youth sessions, they develop targeted projects that respond to the identified needs of young people, and mental health and wellbeing awareness forms an important part of this approach.
Supporting mental health and wellbeing is not only about being there when someone is struggling. It is also about helping young people develop the knowledge, relationships and positive habits that can support them through the challenges they may face.
Through Blend’s youth provision, young people have opportunities to get active, spend time with others, try new experiences, develop interests and skills and build positive relationships with their peers and trusted adults.
The team also help young people learn more about their physical and mental health so they can make informed, positive choices about their lifestyles. Youth workers provide opportunities to talk and access information, advice and guidance, and can help young people connect with appropriate mental health support when additional help is needed.
Taking positive steps towards the future
While Youth Mental Health Day provides an important opportunity to raise awareness, supporting young people’s wellbeing is part of the work the Blend team do every day.
Central to their approach is listening to young people and responding to their challenges and needs. By creating positive opportunities, encouraging healthy choices and providing trusted relationships, Blend want to help young people take positive steps towards their future and feel better equipped to manage the challenges they may face.
