A Way Forward Podcast Blog Series: Youth Mental Health

Accessing the right support remains a challenge for many young people and their families. In our first A Way Forward Podcast Blog Series, we will dive into youth mental health and the challenges and opportunities surrounding the vital topic.

The Startling Reality of Youth Mental Health

Did you know that 75% of mental illnesses emerge before the age of 25? Even more concerning is the youth aged 12-25 often don’t receive the help they need. For Mike Gawliuk, CMHA Kelowna CEO, who spent decades working with at-risk youth and adults, this statistic underscores a persistent gap in early intervention and support.

Watch Episode 1: Youth Mental Health of A Way Forward Podcast | Presented by Beem Credit Union

The Case for Early Intervention

Although there are no crystal balls to predict outcomes, the importance of early intervention and prevention for youth is critical. Early intervention enables proper diagnosis, timely treatment, and better chances of managing mental health challenges effectively. However, this assumes a robust system of care – something that is still evolving.

“We’re good at spending money on emergencies,” said Gawliuk, “But investing in prevention can stop emergencies from happening in the first place. It’s not an ‘either-or,’ it’s ‘all-in.’ We need resources, people, and programs to prevent the next generation from facing the struggles we see today.”

Understanding the Impact of Today’s World

Today’s youth face unique pressures that amplify mental health challenges. Social media, climate change, economic instability, and the lingering effects of the pandemic are just a few of the factors weighing heavily on young minds.

Social media can play a significant role in youth mental health. Whether it be personal image, cyber bullying, and even anxiety about current events, they all play a role in complicating and potentially supporting mental health challenges.

Social Media & Mental Health | CMHA Discovery College Kelowna

Solutions: Early Intervention Through Foundry

Foundry, a province-wide initiative, has been a game-changer in youth mental health. CMHA Kelowna was one of the early adopters, and today, over 30 Foundry centres exist across British Columbia, with virtual options that ensure no young person is left behind.

Building a Better Future

The conversation in Episode 1: Youth Mental Health of A Way Forward Podcast | Presented by Beem Credit Union highlights a simple yet powerful message: investing in youth mental health is an investment in our collective future. By prioritizing prevention, supporting caregivers, and leveraging innovative programs like Foundry Kelowna, we can address the systemic gaps and give young people the tools they need to thrive.

As CMHA Kelowna CEO, Mike Gawliuk put it, “It’s essential. A little prevention is worth a pound of cure – and it’s time we commit to that as a society.”

Tune in to the full podcast episode, wherever you get your podcasts or on YouTube, to learn more about youth mental health, early intervention, and Foundry Kelowna.

The way forward is together.

A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health

A Way Forward Podcast is proudly presented by Beem Credit Union. Blue Shore Financial, GFCU Savings, Gulf & Fraser, Interior Savings, and North Peace Savings are tradenames of Beem Credit Union.

‍