YouTube Makes It Easier for Teens to Find Mental Health Content

YouTube has announced the launch of a new section dedicated to mental health content for teenagers, designed to help users aged 13–17 easily find reliable and age-appropriate information on topics such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and eating disorders. When teens search for terms like “depression” or “panic attacks”, curated playlists from trusted health organizations will now appear at the top of the results.

According to YouTube, this update is part of its mission to promote digital well-being and provide a safe online environment for younger users. The company collaborated with experts from organizations such as the Child Mind Institute and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to ensure that all videos come from certified professionals and are presented in an accessible, empathetic tone suitable for teenagers.

This initiative comes amid growing global concern over youth mental health. A 2023 CDC survey found that 39.7% of high school students in the United States reported experiencing persistent sadness or hopelessness, and 28.5% said they struggled with poor mental health. Other studies show that nearly one in five adolescents worldwide faces symptoms of anxiety or depression before the age of 18. These numbers highlight the urgent need for accessible, trustworthy resources where teens can learn, understand, and seek help.

The new feature will roll out in the U.S., U.K., Canada, Mexico, France, and Australia within the next few weeks, with more countries expected to follow. By highlighting educational and supportive content, YouTube aims to evolve from an entertainment hub into a reliable resource for youth empowerment and emotional awareness — a place where every young user can feel seen, heard, and understood.