Survey Results

Demographics

Respondents are primarily between ages 19-25 and 26+, with smaller representations from the 16-18 age group.

Across all countries, the majority of respondents identified as woman.

Common Positive Emotions Experienced

Young people reported feelings of optimism, happiness, and hope at least half of the time, though often in fluctuation. Icelandic and Spanish youngsters expressed high energy, optimism, and hope regularly, while Greek youngsters noted high energy and happiness but often paired with concerns over physical appearance and career.

Common Negative Emotions Experienced

Across countries, sadness, nervousness, and irritability were frequently experienced. Greek and Slovenian youth, in particular, reported consistent nervousness and irritability, while Icelandic youth cited sadness as a recurring feeling.

Primary Concerns

• Personal and Physical Well-being: Young people in all countries expressed concerns about physical appearance, health, and diet. In Greece, concerns over body image were notably frequent.

• Academic and Career Prospects: Career stability and academic performance were top concerns, particularly in Spain, Iceland and Portugal where many respondents reported anxiety over future opportunities.

• Social Connections: Romantic relationships, friendships, and family dynamics were additional sources of worry, with Greek and Slovenian youth noting particular stress in maintaining close relationships alongside their own mental health challenges.

• Environment and Finances: Concerns about financial security and climate change were frequent, especially among Icelandic, Portuguese and Greek youth.

Lifestyle Impacts on Mental Health

• Diet and Sleep: Changes in diet and poor sleep quality were reported across all groups. For many, mental health issues negatively impacted sleep.

• Social Media: Social networks were seen as double-edged; while they facilitate social connection and awareness, they also lead to overstimulation and issues with self-esteem. Greek and Spanish youth noted both positive and negative impacts, often citing overload or self-comparison as negative influences.

Access to Mental Health Services

While many youth wish to seek mental health support, they cite cost and long waitlists as barriers. This is particularly notable in Greece and Portugal, where cost and concerns over stigma are significant obstacles.

Demographics

Youth workers most frequently worked with the 19-25 age group, although some worked with 16-18 and 26+ groups as well.

Observed Concerns Among Youth

• Future Prospects: Career-related stress and academic pressures were prominent, particularly in Iceland, Portugal and Greece, where youth workers observed young people's worry about long-term career stability.

• Social Relationships: Romantic relationships and friendships were cited as major concerns. Youth workers in Greece highlighted youth concerns over personal relationships and family expectations.

• Health and Appearance: Youth in all regions displayed consistent concerns over physical health and body image, with Greek youth workers noting heightened awareness around appearance.

Social Media and Its Impact on Youth

Across all countries, youth workers noted both positive and negative impacts of social media. While it connects youth and raises awareness on social issues, it also contributes to issues with self-esteem, overstimulation, and anxiety about reality perception.

Barriers to Mental Health Services

Cost and waitlists were cited as major barriers across countries, with stigma being a particularly strong factor in Greece and Portugal. Youth workers observe that while there’s a clear interest in mental health support, accessibility remains a significant hurdle.