During a recent gathering in New York, the United Nations Youth Office joined forces with the World Health Organization to showcase how football can serve as more than a game — it can be a catalyst for improving youth mental health. Dr. Al Nahari, a leading voice in the field, stressed that a supportive ecosystem is essential for tackling the rising prevalence of mental health conditions among adolescents.
Building a Supportive Ecosystem
A UN report reveals that one in seven people aged ten to nineteen lives with a mental health condition, yet most countries allocate less than two per cent of their health budgets to mental health, creating a $200 billion financing gap. The WHO advocates for interventions that build resilience and promote inclusive social environments, noting that participation in team sports is linked to lower rates of depression and anxiety.
The upcoming "One World, One Game, One Goal" event aims to combat social isolation by bringing young people together on the pitch. Felipe Paullier, head of the UN Youth Office, highlighted that football discussions naturally open pathways to conversations about mental well‑being, helping to dismantle stigma and foster a sense of belonging.
WHO and UNICEF have developed frameworks to guide governments in integrating psychosocial support into schools and community programmes. These tools, together with increased funding, are seen as critical steps toward ensuring that every young person can access both sport and mental‑health resources.