Adolescent mental well-being and European policy: a case for increased advocacy

Mental well-being is one of the greatest public health challenges to policymakers; the prevalence of mental disorders, burden of disease and the fact that they are the main cause of disability in many countries should be cause for action. When more than half of lifetime mental disorders arise before adulthood and with children making up ⅕ of the population of the European Union, there is a case to be made for laying strong foundations for good mental health for future generations. What are the existing European policies around adolescent mental wellbeing and how can we influence them? This paper aims to describe the current policy landscape around adolescent mental health in Europe with the goal of raising awareness amongst researchers of the commitments made by European countries on the subject and the areas where further advocacy could provide a tipping point for action. All children have a right to grow up healthy, to lead a fulfilling life, to develop individual competencies and to have access to opportunities. Understanding the policy process and the opportunities for action can improve our individual ability to be effective advocates on this important subject for children in Europe.