Impact of Social Exclusion, Intersectionality and Discrimination on Children and Young People’s Mental Health

Udonsi, Patience; Collett, Miriam; Heaslip, Vanessa

Abstract

This chapter commences by examining the links between inequalities and mental health, exploring the impact of the social gradient of health as well as examining national and international policies aimed at addressing health inequities. The chapter develops by defining key terms such as discrimination and stigma before applying the theory of intersectionality, highlighting how overlapping identities and experiences of discrimination exacerbating mental health conditions in children and young people. It examines the mechanisms through which marginalisation and systemic discrimination contribute to adverse mental health outcomes, emphasising the need for a nuanced understanding of these complex interrelations. Furthermore, the chapter serves as a resource for practitioners, offering insights into a spectrum of support and networks that can be leveraged to respond to the needs of young people from excluded backgrounds. It also presents evidence-based strategies designed to combat discrimination, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for mental health interventions.

• Online Publication Date: Jun 4, 2025
• Publication Date: Jun 4, 2025
• Deposit Date: Jun 17, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 5, 2026
• Publisher: Springer Nature [academic journals on nature.com]
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Book Title: Needs of Children and Young People Living with Complex Mental Health Difficulties
• Chapter Number: 7
• ISBN: 978-3-031-84531-4
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-84532-1_7
• Keywords: Social exclusion, marginalisation, inequalities, inequalities, intersectionality