Brussels, 15 October 2025, the European Parliament Intergroup on Mental Health, supported by GAMIAN-Europe and Mental Health Europe as Co-Secretariats, hosted a high-level event titled A Generation’s Wellbeing: From Rights to Action in Youth’s Mental Health at the European Parliament in Brussels.
Exploring the pressures facing Europe’s young people
The event brought together policymakers, youth leaders, UNICEF representatives, and mental health experts. Participants discussed how digital technologies and social media affect young people’s mental health.
Across Europe, adolescents face growing pressures in a fast-changing digital world. Online platforms shape their education, friendships, and sense of identity. For many, these tools create space for creativity and connection. Yet they also bring constant comparison, cyberbullying, and unrealistic expectations.
Keynote and policy discussion
The event opened with a keynote speech by Glenn Micallef, European Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport. He set the tone for an open and forward-looking exchange on youth mental health in Europe.
UNICEF’s new research on digital wellbeing
During the event, UNICEF presented new research from Europe and Central Asia. The study revealed a rise in the problematic use of social media and online gaming.
The findings showed clear links between excessive digital use and poor mental health. Many young people reported sleep problems, lower well-being, anxiety, depression, and even increased substance use. These insights highlight the urgent need for stronger prevention and better access to mental health care.
Panel Discussion
A panel of Members of the European Parliament, UNICEF experts, youth advocates, and mental health organisations followed. They discussed how EU policies can better protect and promote digital well-being. Speakers called for early intervention, stronger collaboration, and policies that respect Europe’s cultural diversity.
Key Insights Emerging from the Discussion
The panel highlighted several important takeaways and policy priorities:
Digital literacy remains low. More education and awareness are needed to help young people navigate online spaces safely and critically.
Social work and affordable housing are essential components of mental health support and social inclusion.
Fair labour policies must ensure access to decent working conditions and mental health support.
Access to therapy should be guaranteed and made affordable for all young people.
Addictive design features in social media need to be reduced, while healthier and more balanced digital habits should be promoted.
These insights underline the need for coordinated EU-level action on Youth’s Mental Health and digital wellbeing.
Commitment to action
As Co-Secretariat of the European Parliament Intergroup on Mental Health, GAMIAN-Europe, together with Mental Health Europe, proudly supported this important initiative. The event showed a shared European commitment to advancing youth mental health and turning research into action.
By bringing together policymakers, experts, and young people, the event marked a key step forward. It reinforced the vision of a Europe where every adolescent can thrive both online and offline.
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