How Organisations Can Meaningfully Engage Young People in Mental Health Policy and Practice

Developed by the Global Mental Health Action Network (GMHAN), and with the partnership of the MHPSS Collaborative, Global Psychology Alliance, The Being Initiative, and partners from the Psychologists Coalition at the UN, WHO Youth Council and UNICEF, this brief serves as a practical guide for civil society organisations, professional associations, foundations, and private-sector initiatives.

This new resource includes an outline of the principles of youth engagement, a planning checklist for meaningful engagement, entry points for influence, details of ethical and safeguarding measures and more!

Its purpose is to empower these entities to strategically and meaningfully integrate young people into all activities aimed at influencing the pivotal September 2025 UN High-Level Meeting (HLM) on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and Mental Health, as well as to extend this impact into implementation and local action. This HLM represents a critical juncture to secure global commitments, and youth voices are indispensable in shaping an effective and resonant agenda and in pushing for action and accountability after the HLM.

Additional resources and blogs to support youth engagement in mental health policy and practice:

✦ Recommendations: 7 tips for strengthening youth advocates

✦ Success Story: Creating pathways to youth involvement in the HLM on NCDs & Mental Health

✦ Glossary: Global health terms guide developed by young professionals

✦ Guidelines: GMHAN’s Effective Youth Engagement Principles (2023)

✦ Blog: Youth Voices at the UN - Reflections from the HLM Advocacy Week