How can technology support young people’s mental health and wellbeing? Helping to develop a balanced and effective mental health support system

Purpose Imagine a generation equipped with effective mental health tools as early as childhood, fundamentally shaping their futures for the better. With one in four young people experiencing a mental health problem annually (McManus, 2009), early access to mental health resources is not only beneficial but essential. Technology is an ever-developing way of providing valuable tools to young people in a number of diverse ways. Although technology introduces its own challenges such as risks of cyberbullying, social isolation and heightened anxiety; it can also offer tools and resources to support mental health and wellbeing. The purpose of this paper is to provide a unique perspective on how technology can support young people's mental health through accessible therapy, mental health apps, and online communities, while assessing the limitations and ethical implications. Design/methodology/approach Technology is an ever-developing way of providing valuable tools to young people in a number of diverse ways. Although technology introduces its own challenges such as risks of cyberbullying, social isolation and heightened anxiety, it can also offer tools and resources to support mental health and wellbeing. Findings This paper discusses how technology can support young people’s mental health through accessible therapy,mental health apps and online communities, while assessing the limitations and ethical implications. Originality/value This paper was originally submitted to a Psychology Essay Competition run by The University of Law, UK, and offers a unique view of a young person on how technology can support young people’s mental health and wellbeing.