A study conducted in Catalonia reveals that 25.9% of young people between 16 and 22 years old have self-harmed at least once. The research, promoted by the Social Observatory of "la Caixa" Foundation and led by Regina Vila, a postdoctoral psychologist at Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, focuses on the increase in emotional distress among Catalan youth.
Concern about the increase in self-injurious and suicidal behaviors
The report indicates that 30.6% of young Catalans in this age range have had suicidal thoughts. Furthermore, 10.6% have attempted to take their own lives at some point. These figures place Catalonia at similar values to those of other European countries, according to the head of the study.
"The figures indicate that discomfort is growing and, therefore, everything related to suicidal behaviors" - Regina Vila, postdoctoral psychologist
The analysis also gathers that 80% of the respondents mention bullying as the main reason for their discomfort. However, personal factors appear recurrently in the collected testimonies.
Social factors and pressure on youth
Regina Vila highlights that the current context makes it difficult for young people to achieve stability, even for those with training and responsibility. Working hard no longer guarantees housing, stable employment, or the expected standard of living. This situation, coupled with social pressure and uncertainty, contributes to many adolescents and young people experiencing a particularly difficult time from a psychological point of view.
"From a psychological point of view, this time can be very hard for many young people" - Regina Vila, postdoctoral psychologist
The study also analyzes the role of social media. Although they are not considered the direct cause of the discomfort, they do act as a multiplying element. The adaptive use of these platforms requires skills that are still developing in adolescence, which can increase the vulnerability of some young people.
Prevention and role of the educational community
One of the most relevant facts is that many young people who have attempted suicide had not previously spoken about their problems with anyone. For this reason, the specialist recommends creating safe and calm spaces, avoiding pressure or interrogation.
"It's not about interrogating or pressuring, but about creating a safe space, of calm" - Regina Vila, postdoctoral psychologist
Schools are considered a fundamental environment for detection and accompaniment, although the responsibility should not fall solely on the teaching staff. Specialized external resources that work within educational centers are demanded to reinforce prevention and emotional support.
Finally, the study underlines the importance that young people have goals, feel useful and form part of a group, since these factors act as protective elements against emotional distress.