The Labour government elected in July 2024 has committed to expanding mental health services for young people:
- Mental health support teams in all schools by 2028 (currently in 40% of schools)
- Open-access mental health hubs in every community, offering walk-in support without GP referral
- Recruiting 8,500 additional mental health workers for children and young people's services
- Reducing CAMHS waiting times to a maximum of 4 weeks by 2029
The government has also announced a review of social media regulation, including potential age limits and restrictions on algorithmic content for under-16s.
However, the Royal College of Psychiatrists warns that workforce recruitment will take years, and that without addressing underlying drivers (social media, poverty, academic pressure), demand will continue to outstrip supply.
What parents and schools can do
For parents:
- Talk openly about mental health and create a safe space for children to share concerns
- Monitor social media use and encourage breaks, particularly before bedtime
- Watch for warning signs: persistent low mood, withdrawal, changes in sleep or appetite, self-harm
- Seek help early: Contact your GP if concerned; don't wait for a crisis
- Use available resources: Helplines (YoungMinds Parent Helpline: 0808 802 5544), online resources, school counsellors
For schools:
- Train staff to recognise mental health problems and respond appropriately
- Provide accessible support: School counsellors, mental health leads, peer support programmes
- Create a positive culture: Anti-bullying policies, inclusive environments, reduced stigma
- Manage academic pressure: Balanced approach to exams, support for struggling students
- Engage parents: Communication about mental health resources and how to access support
The international context
The UK is not alone in facing a youth mental health crisis. OECD data shows rising rates of anxiety and depression among young people across high-income countries, with social media and pandemic effects cited as common factors.
However, the UK's CAMHS capacity is lower than many comparable countries:
- Child psychiatrists per capita: UK has 5.2 per 100,000 children, compared to 8.1 in Germany and 9.4 in France
- Mental health spending: UK spends 11% of health budget on mental health, compared to 13-15% in leading countries
- Waiting times: UK waiting times are longer than most Western European countries
The bottom line
Referrals to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) reached 1.2 million in 2023-24, up 60% from 750,000 in 2019-20, while one in five children aged 8-16 now has a probable mental health disorder compared to one in nine in 2017. Average waiting times for CAMHS treatment have increased to 14 weeks, with some areas reporting waits over 6 months. Self-harm hospital admissions for 10-17 year olds have risen 25% since 2019, with girls disproportionately affected.
Social media use, pandemic isolation, exam pressure, and cost-of-living stress are identified as key drivers of deteriorating youth mental health. CAMHS services, already underfunded before COVID-19, struggle to meet unprecedented demand, with 35% of referrals rejected as not meeting thresholds. The government has committed to expanding mental health support teams in schools and recruiting additional staff, but experts warn that addressing the crisis requires tackling underlying drivers, not just expanding services. For families affected, early intervention, open communication, and using available support (school counselling, voluntary sector services, online resources) are critical while waiting for specialist help.
Key takeaways
- Referrals to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) reached 1.2 million in 2023-24, up 60% from 750,000 in 2019-20
- One in five children aged 8-16 now has a probable mental health disorder, compared to one in nine in 2017
- Average waiting times for CAMHS treatment have increased to 14 weeks, with some areas reporting waits over 6 months
- Self-harm hospital admissions for 10-17 year olds have risen 25% since 2019, with girls disproportionately affected
- Social media use, pandemic isolation, exam pressure, and cost-of-living stress are identified as key drivers
Sources
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