Best Time Of Your Life?

The mass media likes to project the idea that youthfulness is carefree, that it is the best time of your life, but recent research would deny such an idyllic period. 'Depression and anxiety are affecting more young people than ever before. According to a study published today by the Office for National Statistics, one in five 16- to 24-year-olds are suffering psychological problems, which is almost the rate at which these are seen in early middle age, the life-stage usually most associated with mental health issues.' (Guardian, 4 November) Capitalism is an anxious society for most workers but with rising youth unemployment there are additional problems.RD