Assessing PNG Youths’ Knowledge about Mental Health Issues, Substance Abuse, and Gender-Based Violence

Abstract

Youth in Papua New Guinea (PNG) face serious challenges including mental health issues, substance abuse, and gender-based violence (GBV). In PNG, 67% of the population is under 35 (National Statistical Office 2021). However, only 10% of young people graduate from recognised tertiary institutions (colleges and universities) and gain employment each year (Napitalai et al. 16/4/2024). Youth crime is increasingly viewed as a major social issue, often linked to unemployment, limited access to higher education, and exposure to drugs, violence, and mental health struggles. Awareness remains a critical first step in addressing these issues. This In Brief presents findings from a larger study assessing youth awareness of mental health, alcohol abuse, and GBV in the National Capital District (NCD).