Theme 7 · ACGMH 2027
Strengthening mental health systems that support young people through schools, families, and community structures — emphasizing early intervention, resilience-building, and creating environments where youth can thrive.
Overview
This theme is part of the broader conference focus on community-based mental health systems, innovation, equity, and resilience across Africa and low- and middle-income countries.
← All ThemesYoung people represent the largest and most dynamic segment of the population across Africa, yet they are also among the most vulnerable to mental health challenges. Adolescence and early adulthood are critical developmental periods marked by identity formation, social pressures, and increasing exposure to risk factors including poverty, violence, and digital influences.
This theme recognizes that early intervention is one of the most effective strategies for preventing long-term mental health conditions — and that investing in youth mental health improves lifelong outcomes in education, employment, and well-being.
Youth mental health is not just a sectoral issue — it is a societal priority with the potential to build stronger foundations for the next generation.
Significance
This theme addresses urgent and interconnected challenges in mental health systems, with direct implications for research, policy, practice, and communities.
Early onset: many mental health challenges begin during adolescence, making early intervention critical.
High vulnerability: young people face unique stressors including academic pressure, identity struggles, and social change.
Rising suicide rates: suicide is a leading cause of death among young people globally, with increasing concern in African contexts.
Schools as critical entry points: schools provide structured environments for prevention, identification, and intervention.
Long-term impact: investing in youth mental health improves lifelong outcomes in education, employment, and well-being.
Key Areas of Focus
Submissions may address any of the following focus areas, or propose related topics aligned with the conference vision.
Identification of mental health needs during adolescence
Prevention-focused approaches in schools and communities
Addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral challenges
Life skills development and emotional regulation
Understanding drivers of suicide among young people
Gendered patterns and risk factors (young men, social isolation)
School and community-based suicide prevention strategies
Gatekeeper training for teachers, peers, and community members
Integrating mental health into school health programs
Role of teachers and school staff in mental health support
Creating safe, inclusive, and supportive school environments
Anti-bullying and anti-stigma initiatives
Empowering young people as peer supporters and leaders
Youth-led mental health awareness and advocacy
Peer support groups and clubs
Co-creation of programs with young people
Role of caregivers in supporting youth mental health
Strengthening family communication and relationships
Addressing cultural and social barriers to care
Engaging parents, guardians, and community leaders
Impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)
Trauma from violence, displacement, and poverty
Building resilience and coping mechanisms
Protective factors that promote positive development
Influence of social media on mental health
Designing youth-friendly digital interventions
Risks: cyberbullying and online harm
Balancing online and offline support systems
Cross-Cutting Considerations
Equity
Reaching out-of-school youth, marginalized populations, and rural communities
Gender Sensitivity
Addressing different experiences of boys, girls, and gender-diverse youth
Safeguarding
Protecting children and adolescents from harm
Participation
Ensuring youth voices are central in program design
Integration
Linking schools with health, social services, and community systems
Guiding Questions
How can mental health systems effectively reach young people early?
What models best integrate mental health into school environments?
How can peer-led approaches be scaled safely and effectively?
What are the most effective strategies for preventing youth suicide?
How can families and communities better support adolescent wellbeing?
What role can digital tools play in youth mental health support?
What We Invite
Strategic Importance
This theme is critical for the long-term transformation of the mental health system. By investing in young people, mental health conditions can be prevented or mitigated early, resilience can be strengthened across generations, and communities can build stronger foundations for wellbeing.
Ready to contribute?