“If only I’d had someone to talk to…”
We hear this again and again from young people. Behind those words is often a story of loneliness, confusion, or shame - and the deep impact these struggles have on mental health.
On the 10th of October, the world marks World Mental Health Day - a reminder that conversations about our wellbeing can’t stay hidden. This year, as the spotlight falls on making mental health a global priority, we want to highlight an often-overlooked truth:
👉 Healthy relationships and good sexual health education are not 'extras.' They are essential for protecting mental health.
At acet UK, we see firsthand how equipping young people with the tools to build safe relationships, understand their bodies, and resist harmful pressures transforms not just their choices - but their confidence, resilience, and wellbeing.
Mental Health and Young People
Mental health challenges are on the rise for young people. Studies in the UK show that around 1 in 6 young people aged 7–16 experience a mental health problem. For teenagers and young adults, those numbers are even higher.
Behind the statistics are real stories:
- A 15-year-old who feels pressured to start a sexual relationship before they are ready.
- A 17-year-old who struggles with body image because of what they see online.
- A 14-year-old facing peer pressure to experiment with drugs or alcohol.
- A young person who has experienced abuse, bullying, or neglect and doesn’t know where to turn.
These experiences aren’t just 'part of growing up.' They shape self-esteem, emotional wellbeing, and mental health in powerful ways.
Sexual Health and Mental Health Go Hand in Hand
Sexual health isn’t just about biology. It’s deeply connected to identity, self-esteem, and emotional wellbeing. When young people receive only partial information - or worse, misinformation - they can be left feeling confused, ashamed, or anxious.
We’ve seen firsthand how shame around sexuality can erode mental health. When young people don’t feel safe to ask questions or when myths circulate unchecked, it can foster guilt, secrecy, and fear.
By providing age-appropriate relationships and sexual health education, we help young people:
- Understand their bodies
- Know the truth about protection, pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Make informed decisions based on respect and self-worth
- Avoid the mental strain that comes from fear, uncertainty, or unhealthy pressure
- Understand the risks of substance abuse
This World Mental Health Day
As we reflect on mental health this October, let’s remember that:
- Healthy relationships build resilience.
- Sexual health education nurtures confidence.
- Prevention of substance misuse protects futures.
And together, they all contribute to stronger mental health for young people.
Our vision is simple: a generation of young people who know their value, respect themselves and others, and are free to build healthy, flourishing lives.
We believe that by working together, we can see this vision become reality.
🙏 Join Us
This World Mental Health Day, please join us in standing with young people. Pray, give to our valuable work, or simply start a conversation that helps break the silence.
Because when we invest in relationships, sexual health, and prevention, we’re not just protecting physical health - we’re giving young people the gift of hope, confidence, and mental wellbeing.
