Adolescent mental wellbeing in disadvantaged urban neighbourhoods: a participatory needs analysis
LM Van den Steen, L Vesentini, K Van den Broeck, R Thys, K VanRoyen, J BilsenAbstract
Background
Adolescents living in urban, disadvantaged neighbourhoods face an increased risk of mental health challenges due to interacting social and structural determinants. Needs assessments that engage adolescents and community stakeholders are essential to inform context-sensitive public mental health interventions. This study aimed to explore adolescents ’key figures’ and professional caregivers’ perception of adolescent mental health, its determinants and needs for mental health promotion in urban, disadvantaged neighbourhoods in Belgium.
Methods
A qualitative needs analysis was conducted within the ProMent project, a Participatory Action Research, in two neighbourhoods in Brussels and Antwerp, Belgium. Data were collected through 51 semi-structured interviews with adolescents, formal and informal key figures, and professional caregivers. Participants were recruited through local community networks. Interviews explored the perception of adolescent mental health (determinants), and opportunities for mental health promotion. Data were analysed using thematic analysis informed by a socio-ecological framework.
Results
Findings highlight the socio-ecological nature of adolescent mental wellbeing. Participants often prioritize structural concerns such as financial insecurities and safety over mental health. Trusted relationships with key figures and access to safe spaces were repeatedly identified as facilitators for seeking support. These figures frequently act as informal first responders to adolescent distress and as bridge builders to professional services. Stakeholders also emphasized the importance of youth empowerment and culturally embeddedness of initiatives.
Conclusions
These findings underline the importance of strengthening community-based support networks and integrating key figures in local mental health strategies for adolescents in disadvantaged neighbourhoods to improve early identification of mental health needs and access to support.