Twenty years ago, the number of young people suffering from anxiety and depression began to increase. According to neuroscientist Eveline Crone, there are several explanations for this. 'It has certainly become more normal to talk about mental problems. If you talk about it a lot, then it is there," she tells NRC.
Research into and with young people
Crone involves young people in research asking questions such as: What do they find important? What do they need? Crone noticed that young people interested in science, in particular, were involved in research. She then started talking to young people who would normally not participate in panels, such as young people from Rotterdam-South.
The researchers were soon able to debunk certain myths. For example, during the lockdowns, young people turned off their cameras during online lessons because they were said to be disinterested. It was inability and insecurity.
Preventing anxiety and depression
More and more young people suffer from anxiety and depression. 'What can we do about it? Empowering young people is what makes them stronger,' says Crone. 'They all have the same fundamental needs: discovering the world, building intimate friendships, being heard and seen.' According to Crone, they must have more say. 'It's not just: you have to get stronger'. The environment must also become more robust.