Why More Young People Are Struggling With Anxiety Today

Mental health is a conversation that can change lives — especially for young people.

In this episode of Mental Health Break on U Multicultural Channel Radio, host Rita Chahal welcomes Jez Torres, Youth Coordinator, for an honest and inspiring discussion about youth mental health, anxiety, resilience, and the importance of creating safe spaces for young people.

Jez shares insights from years of peer support work, including how personal experiences with mental health challenges can help create deeper connections with others. Together, Rita and Jez explore how programs like MAD Camp (Music, Art, Dance & Drama) help young people express emotions, build confidence, and develop healthy coping strategies.

This powerful conversation covers:

• Why anxiety is one of the biggest mental health challenges facing youth today
• How creativity and self-expression can support emotional wellbeing
• The importance of asking for help and breaking the stigma around mental health
• How parents can create trust, compassion, and open communication with their children
• Why safe spaces allow young people to grow, connect, and build resilience

Jez also opens up about their own mental health journey, sharing a message of hope and reminding us that seeking support is a sign of strength.

🎙️ Program: Mental Health Break
🎤 Host: Rita Chahal
📻 Platform: U Multicultural Channel Radio
🌎 Organization: Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba and U Radio as we explore

00:00 Welcome to Mental Health Break: Why youth mental health matters today
01:04 Meet Jez Torres: Turning personal experiences into peer support
02:39 MAD Camp: How Music, Art, Dance & Drama support youth wellness
05:01 Creativity and healing: Helping young people express their emotions
07:28 Youth anxiety today: Understanding stress, isolation, and resilience
09:46 Making mental health education relatable for young people
12:16 Asking for help is a strength: Building trust and safe conversations
14:20 Jez’s mental health journey: From anxiety and depression to hope
19:50 Parenting and mental health: Creating support through compassion
27:02 Learning through creativity: Building confidence, connection, and resilience