AUTHOR: Te Hiringa Mahara - the New Zealand Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission.
This report draws on insights from engagements with 95 young people, representing 20 different community groups. It also builds on the findings of a literature review undertaken in 2022 by Koi Tū: The Centre for Informed Futures, which explores the perspectives of young people in Aotearoa on systemic factors affecting their wellbeing.
Four themes for the drivers of youth wellbeing, identified as a priority by young people, form the basis of the report:
- Uncertain futures: facing new social, economic and environmental challenges that can make the world seem 'hostile and bleak"
- Government and system leaders must listen to young people
- Young people want action on climate change
- Young people are under pressure
- Young people need economic stability
- Social media and safety online
- Young people seek community and connection online
- There is pressure to be visable and a need to be safe
- Increasing equitable access to online connections is important, but these spaces need to be safe
- Racism and discrimination
- National conversations should celebrate diversity
- Young people need better access to support
- Whānau wellbeing and intergenerational connections
- Reduce barriers for connection and belonging
- Whānau need support
Under each of these themes are 'calls to action' for government, decision-makers and community leaders. They highlight the opportunities for change and reflect the concerns expressed by young people.
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