In a world that is rapidly evolving and becoming increasingly complex, the mental health of children and young people has emerged as a critical issue. Growing up during a time of unprecedented turbulence and uncertainty, today’s youth are facing a range of challenges that previous generations could scarcely imagine. The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, economic instability, and the looming climate crisis have all contributed to a pervasive sense of anxiety and stress among young people. Alarmingly, it is now estimated that one in six children is likely to have a mental health condition, a figure that has surged by 50% over the last three years.
The Decline in Children’s Happiness
The Good Childhood Report 2022, a comprehensive study by The Children’s Society, reveals a stark decline in children’s happiness. The report paints a troubling picture: in a typical classroom of 30 students, five are likely to be struggling with a mental health problem. This decline in happiness is not just a statistic; it reflects the growing emotional and psychological burdens that young people are carrying. These burdens are often the result of a combination of factors, from personal experiences to broader societal issues.
Triggers of Mental Health Problems
Mental health problems can arise from a range of causes, and each child’s experience is unique. Some common triggers include:
Bullying or Abuse: Whether at school, online, or in the home, bullying and abuse can have a devastating impact on a child’s mental health.
Trauma: Experiencing or witnessing traumatic events can lead to long-lasting psychological effects.
Problems at Home, School, or Work: Struggles in these areas can contribute to feelings of insecurity, stress, and anxiety.
Poverty, Homelessness, or Poor Housing: Economic hardships can exacerbate mental health problems, leading to a sense of hopelessness.
Loss of a Trusted Person: The death or absence of a loved one can trigger profound grief and depression.
Discrimination and Stigma: Facing discrimination or being stigmatised for any reason can significantly harm a young person’s self-esteem and mental well-being.
Loneliness: Social isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression, particularly when young people lack supportive relationships.
Stress and Pressure: Academic, social, and personal pressures can overwhelm young people, leading to anxiety and burnout.
Physical Health Problems: Chronic illness or other health issues can take a toll on mental health, creating a cycle of emotional and physical pain.
Low Self-Esteem: Feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt can contribute to a range of mental health issues.
It’s important to recognise that these triggers often interact in complex ways, and sometimes, there is no single cause that can be pinpointed. Mental health struggles can arise without an obvious reason, and this does not belittle the validity of the experience. Every child’s mental health journey is unique and deserves to be acknowledged and supported.
The Impact of Social Media on Young People’s Mental Health
In today’s digital age, social media has become a central part of life for many young people. While it offers opportunities for connection, self-expression, and learning, it also presents challenges that can negatively impact mental health.
Comparison and Self-Esteem: Social media platforms often showcase curated, idealised versions of life, leading young people to compare themselves to others. This can result in feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and anxiety.
Cyberbullying: Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying can be relentless, unescapable, and difficult to escape from. The anonymity of the internet can also encourage harmful behaviour, making it a significant stressor for young people.
Addiction and Sleep Disruption: The addictive nature of social media can lead to excessive use, which disrupts sleep patterns and can contribute to feelings of fatigue, irritability, and depression.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Constant exposure to the seemingly perfect lives of others can create a fear of missing out, leading to increased anxiety and stress.
Online Pressure: The pressure to maintain a certain image online, gain likes and followers and respond to social media trends can be overwhelming for young people, affecting their mental well-being.
While social media can provide support networks and a sense of community, it’s crucial to recognise and address the potential risks it poses to mental health. Encouraging healthy, balanced use of social media and promoting digital literacy are essential steps in supporting the mental well-being of young people.
The Growing Need for Mental Health Support
Despite the increasing prevalence of mental health problems among young people, access to care remains limited. According to Young Minds, less than one in three young people with a mental health condition receive NHS care and treatment. This gap in support is alarming, particularly given the rise in mental health disorders among children. In 2017, 10.8% of children aged 5 to 16 were identified as having a probable mental disorder. By 2020, this figure had risen to 16.0%. The increase was observed across both boys and girls, highlighting a widespread and growing need for mental health services.
As a society, we must prioritise the mental health of our children and young people. This involves not only providing adequate access to mental health services but also creating environments, at home, in schools, and in communities, where young people feel safe, supported, and understood. By addressing the root causes of mental health problems and ensuring that every child has access to the care they need, we can help the next generation navigate these challenging times and emerge resilient, hopeful, and equipped to thrive.
In the face of ongoing global challenges, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that the mental health of children and young people remains a top priority. Their future, and indeed the future of society as a whole, depends on it.
You can find more mental health information and support for children and young people here
Sources:
https://www.youngminds.org.uk
https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk
https://www.mind.org.uk
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk
Mental Health of Children and Young People in England, 2020: Wave 1 follow up to the 2017 survey – 22 Oct 2020