Young people working as mental health ambassadors told the BBC they want wider access to support and greater recognition of the pressures affecting their generation. In interviews conducted by Catherine Burns, the ambassadors described a sense that mental health issues have been hidden or minimised by older generations, and said that more visible and accessible services are needed.
The ambassadors called for an increase in resources aimed at early help and prevention, including better access to counselling and specialist services in schools and communities. They said trained staff and clearer routes to care would help young people get support before problems escalate, and emphasised the importance of peer-led initiatives that make seeking help less daunting.
Several of those interviewed pointed to a cultural divide, arguing that many in older generations tended to 'bury' discussions about mental health rather than confront them. They said that breaking that silence is essential to reduce stigma and to ensure young people feel able to talk about their difficulties without fear of judgement.
The group described their work as ambassadors as a combination of awareness-raising and practical support: running peer programmes, signposting to services, and campaigning for policy changes that improve access. They said ongoing advocacy is necessary to keep mental health on the agenda for schools, health services and policymakers.
Commenting on their conversations, the BBC reporter noted that these calls echo broader public debates about how health systems and education providers can respond to rising demand for mental health care among young people. The ambassadors said they will continue to press for change, arguing that earlier intervention and open conversation are key to better outcomes.