One in four young people have felt like they were ‘unable to cope’ during pandemic

The Prince’s Trust has recorded the worst findings in the history of its annual young people’s happiness and confidence survey.

The Prince’ Trust is a youth charity designed to help vulnerable young people. Each year the charity undergoes a survey of young people’s happiness and confidence.

This year, the long-running survey found the worst findings in its 12-year history. 

The charity says young people are in danger of giving up on their future and themselves, with a quarter saying they feel unable to cope with life.

The trust’s UK chief executive, Jonathan Townsend, said: “The pandemic has taken a devastating toll on young people’s mental health and wellbeing.

“Many believe they are missing out on being young, and sadly we know that the impact of the pandemic on their employment prospects and overall wellbeing could continue far into their futures.”

The Trusts’ 2020 Youth Index was carried out by YouGov in partnership with Tesco, and found that half of those surveyed said current political and economic events have had effects on their mental health.

Half said they are always or often anxious. This was more prevalent in those not in work, education or training (Neet), rising to 64%.

One in four said they felt unable to cope with life since the start of the pandemic, increasing to 40% in Neet young people.

Since the start of the pandemic, half of the 16-25 year-olds said their mental health has worsened. 

Mr Townsend said: “At this critical time we need businesses, government and individuals to work with us to help as many vulnerable young people as possible. 

“It is only by working together that we can stop this generation of young people giving up on their futures – and themselves.”

Emma Taylor, the UK people director at Tesco, said: “The findings of this year’s Youth Index highlight how vital it is to support young people to develop skills and build their confidence, to support their future. In these extraordinarily difficult times, supporting young people’s mental health is paramount.”

Along with the report, the Prince’s Trust has highlighted four habits that can benefit your mental health.

They are:

1. Establish a routine
2. Practise gratitude
3. Keep a journal
4. Check-in with yourself 

We’ve also put together five top tips to help manage your mental health and wellbeing throughout the lockdown, based on NHS advice.

See what you can do to help your mental wellbeing here. 

If you are struggling to cope and need to chat to someone you can text shout to 85258 and speak to a trained volunteer. If you need urgent support visit here. Whatever you are going through, you don’t need to face it alone!