A significant number of Afghanistan’s young people are grappling with depression and mental health issues.
They report that, in addition to restrictions, unemployment, poverty, and a lack of a bright future, depression has disrupted their lives and left them feeling hopeless.
Since the return of the Taliban, stringent policies—such as restrictions on freedom of expression, arbitrary arrests, revenge killings, torture of former military personnel, and extensive limitations on women—have exacerbated mental health problems.
Young people express that in such an environment, maintaining hope and striving for a better life has become exceedingly difficult, as the Taliban’s increasing restrictions have made life even harder.
Psychologists warn that neglecting the mental health of youth could lead to rising rates of suicide, addiction, domestic violence, and social distrust.
