YouTube is introducing new mental health and wellbeing tools specifically designed for teens, featuring age-appropriate content on topics like depression, anxiety, ADHD, and eating disorders. These tools include a dedicated content shelf with videos from trusted sources, rolling out soon in countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Mexico, France, and Australia. The content must be evidence-based, teen-centric, and engaging, created in collaboration with organizations specializing in teen mental health.
Collaborations with Mental Health Organizations
YouTube partnered with several organizations to produce this content:
- National Alliance for Eating Disorders: Provides expert-led videos addressing common questions about eating disorders, helping teens find support and connect to helplines.
- The Jed Foundation: Developed the ‘Mind Matters’ series with YouTube creators, where experts discuss ADHD, anxiety, and depression in an approachable format.
- Child Mind Institute: Offers resources like Project You Are Okay, designed to speak authentically and supportively to teens, breaking down stigma and empowering them to seek help.
YouTube’s Commitment to Credible Health Information
YouTube has invested in providing credible health information through health source panels that verify licensed healthcare professionals and dedicated content shelves for specific health conditions. The platform also developed teen-specific guardrails on recommendations and content in collaboration with the Youth and Families Advisory Committee. Policies have been regularly updated and recently strengthened, particularly regarding content promoting eating disorders, to better protect users.
Overall Impact
This initiative reflects YouTube’s dedication to creating a safe environment where teens can explore their interests while accessing reliable mental health information. It highlights the platform’s role, recognized by global health organizations, in reaching teens with vital mental health resources when they need it most.
