A connected by lonely generation

by Former Member

Friday 13th February 2015

Daniel Radcliffe

The new Connected Generation report produced by Get Connected asked 5,000 young people what kind of issues they came up against in the modern world, how they prefer to seek help with a problem and how well they feel supported. Daniel says:
“I’m very fortunate to have my parents and good people around me for support, but the sad fact is that many young people don’t have anyone they can turn to for help when they need it, or they don’t feel comfortable reaching out for help.

Alarmingly, of the 5,000 children and young people surveyed for this report, two thirds feel isolated and lonely due to problems they have faced; one in five have experienced suicidal thoughts; 45% have been bullied; two fifths have experienced depression and anxiety.

Many desperate young people are turning to the internet for help with personal problems. Regrettably, the internet can burden young people further; this is especially true for young women, with over 50% telling us that they are more worried about their issues after looking online for help. Get Connected has access to nearly 9,000 trusted help services, and their website and support services can ensure that young people access the best support for them, whatever the situation.

There are many barriers for young people seeking help elsewhere, including a fear of being judged. I think it’s incredibly important for young men and women to know that they can reach out for support without fear of any stigma – Get Connected is a safe space to explore whatever you’re going through, with the chance to find further, specialist help as well.

Over half of children and young people who took part in this study said that they would feel more comfortable asking for help from a free, confidential and non-judgemental support services like Get Connected.

This research clearly shows us that there has never been a more pressing need for the service Get Connected provides.

I’ve been a supporter of Get Connected for over four years and I’ve seen first-hand how many thousands of young people they’ve been able to help, but there are many more out there struggling, alone and in need of support. I’d like to say a huge thank you to the dedicated volunteers who give their time to support so many vulnerable children and young people.

Remember, if you’re under 25 and need support, Get Connected is here for you.”

This post was originally part of the Get Connected website. YouthNet and Get Connected merged to form The Mix in 2016.