EU Intensifies Efforts to Safeguard Youth Mental Health in the Digital Age
In 2025, the European Union has significantly advanced its initiatives to protect the mental well-being of young people amidst the challenges posed by the digital environment. Recognising the profound impact of online platforms on youth, the EU has launched comprehensive strategies to address issues such as gaming disorder, online gambling, and the broader digital determinants affecting mental health.
Council of Europe's Initiative on Online Gaming and Gambling
In January 2025, the Council of Europe, in collaboration with the European Union, introduced the project "Promoting the Mental Health of Children and Youth by Addressing the Risks of Online Gambling and Gaming." This initiative aims to assist nine EU member states – Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Hungary, Italy, Malta, Poland, Portugal, and Slovenia – in developing policies and tools to mitigate the risks associated with online gambling and gaming among youth. The project encompasses the creation of national action plans, public awareness campaigns, and the development of preventive and treatment strategies.
WHO and EFPA's Policy Brief on Digital Determinants
In May 2025, the World Health Organization's Regional Office for Europe, in collaboration with the European Federation of Psychologists' Associations (EFPA), released a policy brief titled "Addressing the Digital Determinants of Youth Mental Health and Well-being." This document provides evidence-based recommendations for policymakers to formulate strategies that mitigate the negative impacts of digital technologies on young people's mental health. Key actions include promoting digital literacy, implementing safeguards against harmful online content, and fostering supportive digital environments.
European Mental Health Week 2025
From May 19 to 25, 2025, the EU observed European Mental Health Week, emphasising the intersection of mental health and social policies. The week highlighted the importance of integrating mental health considerations into various policy areas, including education, employment, and digitalisation. Events and campaigns across member states aimed to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote mental well-being among youth.
Implications for the MINDSET Project
These developments align closely with the objectives of our MINDSET Erasmus+ Project, which focuses on equipping youth workers with tools to identify and prevent gaming disorder. The EU's comprehensive approach underscores the necessity of collaborative efforts among policymakers, educators, health professionals, and digital platforms to create a safer and more supportive digital environment for young people.
The EU's intensified focus in 2025 on the digital determinants of youth mental health marks a significant step toward safeguarding the well-being of young individuals in an increasingly digital world. By addressing the challenges posed by online gaming, gambling, and other digital influences, the EU aims to foster a healthier, more resilient youth population.
Reference list
Council of Europe. (2025, January 30). New project launched to address online gaming and gambling risks among youth. https://www.coe.int/en/web/portal/-/new-project-launched-to-address-online-gaming-and-gambling-risks-among-youth
European Commission. (2025). Healthier youth: Addressing the risks of online gambling and gaming. Directorate-General for Structural Reform Support. https://reform-support.ec.europa.eu/what-we-do/health-and-long-term-care/healthier-youth-addressing-risks-online-gambling-and-gaming_en
Council of Europe – Pompidou Group. (2025). Promoting the mental health of children and youth by addressing the risks of online gambling and gaming. https://www.coe.int/en/web/pompidou/promoting-the-mental-health-of-children-and-youth-by-addressing-the-risks-of-online-gambling-and-gaming
European Federation of Psychologists’ Associations (EFPA). (2025, May). Digital determinants of youth mental health: EFPA collaborates in WHO initiative. https://www.efpa.eu/digital-determinants-youth-mental-health-efpa-collaborates-who-initiative
European Youth Portal. (2025, May 19). European Mental Health Week 2025. https://youth.europa.eu/news/european-mental-health-week-2025_en