Human candle statues are popping up around Denmark to warn of youth burnout

As mental health continues to rise in importance alongside physical health, a new campaign in Denmark from public broadcaster P3 Missionen takes a striking approach to warn of burnout among young people.

The campaign—informed by research suggesting 44% of Danish youth are feeling burned out—features human candle statues being installed across the country. The candles will take approximately two months to completely burn out—“serving as a very real countdown—and a symbol of the state of the youth,” says the agency behind the effort, Uncle Grey.

The statues symbolize that inaction will lead to an entire generation burning out.

“For years we have focused on the importance of physical health—now it’s time to focus on keeping the mind fit,” said Charlotte Porsager, COO at Uncle Grey. “With this project we hope we can shine a light on the importance of that, and help young people know they are not alone in their struggle—because with a series of initiatives, we are here to help them.” 

Those initiatives include the first-ever Mental Health Day (March 9) being held in Danish schools. Small versions of the candles will also be given to influencers and appear in P3 TV shows.