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Abstract

Background: The mental health of youth aged 12-25 is a growing public health concern worldwide which calls for new and innovative responses. To date, approaches to addressing youth mental health have disproportionately centered upon narratives of illness, and respective treatment and recovery interventions at the individual level. The objective of this study is to explore youth’s perspectives and beliefs about mental health from a strengths-based perspective, including identifying factors which enable them to feel supported. Methods: This study draws on in-depth, semi-structured interviews conducted with a diverse sample of youth aged 15-25 (n=35) from the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, Canada. Interview data were thematically analyzed, guided by a social-ecological framework, and the principles of mental health promotion. Results: This analysis yielded three interconnected themes: (1) perspectives shaped by broader social discourses; (2) finding connection and belonging; and (3) creating meaning. Participants articulated a range of perspectives regarding factors which shape and determine mental health, some of which were grounded in notions of individual responsibility, while others were more encompassing of social and political contexts. Participants identified several positive contributors to their mental health and wellbeing, including connections with friends that encourage trust, reciprocity, and growth; strong relationships with family members which provide a foundation for positive mental health; access to safe and affirming community spaces for intellectual or creative expression; and, engagement in volunteerism or youth advocacy groups to establish a sense of purpose and meaning. Conclusions: These findings are of great value for the development of effective policies and programs aiming to strengthen positive mental health and wellbeing among youth. Taken as a whole, these findings underscore the need for comprehensive population-health approaches that target mental health across multiple social-ecological levels of influence. This includes approaches aimed at mental health promotion, alongside prevention, treatment, and recovery.