Increase in youth mental illness

By Soraya G Navarro 27 March 2025

The suicide rate has increased amongst young people in the UK, with the NHS under scrutiny for its mental health service failures and an increasing number of young people unable to access timely, effective support due to, a lack of knowledge, budget and professionals.

Photo Soraya G Navarro

    Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows a 24% rise in suicide rates among 10- to 24-year-olds over the past decade, making it the second leading cause of death for those aged 15 to 19. In 2022 alone, 706 young people in this age group died due to mental health issues. However, the NHS has struggled to meet their demand, overwhelmed by a 134% increase in children and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) referrals since COVID-19, without enough professionals for an early intervention.

    Men are the most affected, with males three times more likely to die by suicide than females in England. Among those aged 15 to 24, young men make up almost 75% of suicides. This crisis is exacerbated by pressures that discourage young men from seeking help, creating a “silent crisis” of untreated mental health issues.

    Social media, school pressure, domestic violence and debts contribute to the problem, with 80% of young people reporting that it harms their mental health. Social media can be positive and negative, with consequences for young people who may be neglected and isolated.

Photo Soraya G Navarro

    A recent Freedom of Information (FOI) request by Mind Charity revealed only 30% of UK secondary schools have full-time counsellors, leaving many young people without vital support. The government has pledged £79 million to expand mental health services by 2024, but experts claim that the funding is not enough. Dr Sarah Hughes, CEO of the Centre for Mental Health, has requested an urgent approach and said that “prevention and accessible services are critical”"

    In response, mental health charities such as the Samaritans and Young Minds staff are currently providing intervention programmes. Educational Health Care Practitioners attend schools and provide support to children and young people experiencing Mental health issues, providing early intervention and emergency crises.

    Digital mental health platforms, including Kooth and Headspace, provide online support for young people. However, experts caution these resources cannot replace professional care, especially in severe cases. It is essential to raise awareness and increase training to promote healthy behaviour.

On average, children and young people experiencing mental health issues can go ten years between the first time they experience difficulties and getting any help. Missed opportunities increase in children and young adults when awareness is poor and attempts by parents to get help are unsuccessful. Mental Health problems can be effective when early intervention is provided.

If you are affected by the issues in this article please call the Samaritans, number below.

Photo Soraya G Navarro