Socio-cultural erosion and the mental health crisis in Iranian youth: Root causes, challenges, and culturally aligned interventions.

Abstract

This review, in light of the Socio-Cultural Erosion Theory, addresses the alarming deterioration in mental health among Iranian youth. According to this theory, rapid socio-cultural changes, economic instability, and pervasive influences of digital media create a drift between traditional values and modern expectations that are detrimental to mental health. The major risk factors identified in order of significance were, in descending order, economic hardship, academic stress, cultural pressures, and digital exposure. It is for this reason that evidence-based, practical interventions are proposed through policy reforms, educational changes, and community-based support to assist youth in Iran in meeting these challenges. The need is for solutions that are embedded within the specific cultural, economic, and social contexts of Iran to promote resilience and mental well-being.