SHOCKING STUDY: Youth struggle with fears despite optimistic future!

SHOCKING STUDY: Youth struggle with fears despite optimistic future!

In a breathtaking podcast from the University of Münster, the respected psychiatrist Georg Romer provided alarming insights into the reality of life for children and young people that will make headlines! He describes how the young generation looks to the future with their heads full of dreams and optimistic outlooks, but at the same time lives in the shadow of dark fears and challenges. As per a recent report by Antenna Münster As can be seen, young people's social relationships have improved remarkably in recent years. A strong social environment not only promotes trust in friends and family, but also gives young people a significant amount of confidence!

But the downside cannot be overlooked: While over 50% of young people are actively interested in political issues, there are an alarming number of young people who fear for their future. Those who are non-heterosexual in particular struggle with existential concerns that they often have to carry in silence. During the unforgettable Corona period, many children lost social connections, a circumstance that makes them vulnerable, as Romer vividly explains. He puts it succinctly: “Despite their vulnerability, there are encouraging treatment successes, but the challenge remains enormous!”

SHOCKING statistics about today's youth

One of the latest results is particularly explosive Shell Youth Study 2024, which examined the attitude to life of 2,500 young people between the ages of 12 and 25. The study shows that 75% of those surveyed have trust in the state and are satisfied with democracy. However, there is also a worrying rise in fears: 81% fear war in Europe. The economic situation and hostilities between each other are also driving concerns to the extreme - 67% and 64% of young people fear serious problems!

What about the climate? Here too, the study shows a worrying 63% of young people have existential fears about the planned climate change. And that's just the beginning! A secure job is “very important” for 91% of those surveyed, and almost 40% of young people want part-time work for parents – a clear cry for change!

The darkness of loneliness

Shockingly, young women in particular are increasingly feeling alone: ​​27% report persistent feelings of loneliness. Georg Romer draws attention to these alarming trends, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. In many cases, familiar social structures are breaking down, and yet young people are still trying to face new challenges with the help of increasing consumption of digital media. But caution is advised here: According to Romer, media consumption between the ages of 10 and 13 could lead to loneliness!

The 19th Shell Youth Study, which was held on October 15, 2024 by Federal Youth Minister Lisa Paus and Professor Dr. Mathias Albert was introduced to illustrate the rapid changes and challenges that young people face. Under the title “Youth 2024 – Pragmatic between disenchantment and lived diversity”, the study shows that despite the omnipresent worries, a majority of young people are optimistic about the future and believe that Germany offers them opportunities to realize their life goals. Pretty encouraging, right? Nevertheless, the path remains rocky and challenging for many.

A dense network of psychotherapists in cities, but the alarming undersupply in rural regions raises questions. The Federal Ministry of Youth, how described here, is urgently working on new solutions to support young people and include their voices in shaping the future.