In an age of constant connection yet growing loneliness, where we are always reachable but rarely truly heard, the Jubilee of Youth — taking place from July 28 to August 3 — may offer a unique experience. As explained by Monsignor Rino Fisichella, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, Section for Fundamental Questions of Evangelization in the World, and the Vatican's head for the Jubilee, this is “the most eagerly awaited” event of the Holy Year, “because it’s the one with the highest participation.” Pilgrims are coming from 146 countries, 68% from Europe, with the rest from across all continents. A special mention goes to young people arriving from war-torn areas — Lebanon, Iraq, Myanmar, Ukraine, Israel, Syria, and South Sudan — creating an ideal “embrace” among the new generations of the world.
This event offers not only a moment of spirituality and encounter but also a mental break and inner regeneration — something especially valuable in a time when young people are facing increasing psychological distress. We discussed this with Cristian Pagliariccio, a psychologist specializing in adolescence and young adulthood, and member of the Lazio Order of Psychologists. He helped us explore the roots of this widespread fragility and the possible transformative value of a collective pilgrimage like the Jubilee.
The Silent Fragility of Youth: Too Much Pressure, Too Few Emotional Skills
“There are many causes of youth distress. To keep it simple, we can highlight two interrelated ones: the increase in social pressure and demand for attention, and the underdevelopment of psychological skills.” According to the psychologist, the merging of online and offline worlds has created an extreme competition to be seen, heard, and noticed.
“Every day, people are constantly pushed to pay attention to the most powerful — even unwanted — messages and must elbow their way into being heard and seen. There is an overexaggeration of competition for attention. Everyone is given the right to speak, but not the right to be heard.”
In this confusion, discovering and cultivating one's own values — essential for developing a solid identity — becomes more and more difficult. Focus becomes fragmented, and reflection grows shallow.
The Lack of Emotional Education
“All this compromises the ability to concentrate and deeply reflect — key elements for personal and social wellbeing,” adds the psychologist. Alongside external pressure, there’s also a structural deficiency in emotional education:
“Emotional and relational education practices in Italy are still stuck in the post-WWII era. Without adequate psychological tools, both young people and adults struggle to navigate an overwhelming flow of contradictory information.”
The result? Mental space for “constructive boredom” — essential for creativity and self-regulation — shrinks. Affective relationships become distorted, and emotional investment even shifts toward artificial intelligence.
“Some people fall in love with these products, assigning them the role of confidants, deep connections, lovers, or even deities,” Pagliariccio notes. It’s a growing gap between the challenges faced and the tools available. “This is a real emergency that requires targeted interventions — even for adults, who are not doing much better than the young.”
The Jubilee as a Transformative Opportunity (If We Have the Tools to Experience It)
But in all this, can an experience like the Jubilee of Youth support mental health?
“The Jubilee is an extraordinary spiritual experience. As such, it has the potential to act as a catalyst for personal growth and positive change.”
According to the psychologist, simply stepping out of one's usual environment can trigger authentic reflections on identity, free from external expectations.
“Adolescents and young adults can explore new versions of themselves. The pilgrimage itself is a physical and mental challenge, which strengthens self-efficacy and confidence. And the shared experience helps revive values such as connection, mutual support, and meaningful dialogue.”
However, he warns: “The Jubilee is not designed as a mental wellness program. It doesn’t, for instance, offer psychological support for those experiencing emotional distress. Just as we now plan for medical support during such events, we should also consider mental health services.”
And he adds: “For the experience to be truly beneficial, young people need the tools to process it. Not everyone can spontaneously turn such a journey into growth. Some may feel overwhelmed; others might remain on the surface.”
Walking, Praying, Sharing: The Simple Gestures That Heal
In a world that keeps us constantly on alert, even walking can become a revolutionary psychological act.
“These simple gestures contribute to mental wellbeing because they address deep human needs that modern life often ignores. Young people are frequently in ‘emergency mode,’ which over time wears down the mind.”
These “calm oases” help rebalance the nervous system, even if they feel uncomfortable at first. “Over time, they can become precious refuges that help restore energy and clarity.”
Experienced in a group, they become moments of positive emotional contagion.
“Seeing other young people find peace in these spaces can inspire others to believe it’s possible — and achievable.” And no digital tools are needed:
“You don’t need an app, a subscription, or equipment. Just yourself — and if you think about sharing, the willingness to remain open to others,” the psychologist adds.
Even for those who don’t identify with a religious path, prayer can still offer value: “It can become a moment of gratitude, reflection on values, or connection with something greater. It can help clarify what gives meaning to one’s life.”
Tips for Participants (and Words for Those Who Are Struggling)
Finally, the psychologist shares some advice for experiencing the Jubilee to the fullest:
“The first tip is to let go of rigid expectations. Arriving with too many expectations can create pressure that blocks the experience from unfolding naturally.”
And: “Don’t judge yourself. If you feel confused or don’t experience what you expected — that’s okay. Wellbeing often begins with acceptance, not force.”
The second tip: be present. “Keep your phone in your pocket. Look people in the eye. Sing, if you feel like it. Presence can turn any moment into something meaningful.”
And for those who are struggling but afraid to ask for help?
“What you’re feeling has a name. You’re not overreacting, and you’re not broken. You’re going through a hard time — and that deserves respect and care.”
“True strength lies in being honest with yourself. You don’t have to tell everyone everything. Start small. Holding it all inside doesn’t make the pain disappear — it amplifies it. And you might discover others are just as fragile. You can start again — together. Even with professional help.”
