By AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Nov 16, 2024 / 09:00 am
Pope Francis has raised concerns about the increasing challenges faced by youth in terms of mental health issues, including self-harm and suicide. In a recent address to Italy’s National Youth Council at the Vatican, the Pope emphasized the need for a new “educational alliance” to address the profound societal changes affecting young people.
Describing the current situation as not just a cultural shift, but an “anthropological metamorphosis,” the Pope stressed the importance of providing comprehensive support structures to help young people navigate this “epochal change.”
Highlighting the various challenges faced by today’s youth, such as work, family, education, civic engagement, environmental concerns, and technology, Pope Francis expressed his concern over the rise in violent acts and self-harm, including suicides.
Addressing the 20th anniversary of the youth council, the Pope acknowledged the positive findings of their “Fourth Trust Index Survey,” which revealed that hope remains a prevalent “inner attitude” among Italian youth. Despite the challenges, Francis encouraged young people to maintain hope and optimism for the future.
Reflecting on the prevalent sense of disillusionment and pessimism in society, Pope Francis urged young people to hold on to hope and work towards building a better future for themselves and others.
