Childhood mental health problems ‘rising’

There has been a 100 per cent increase in the prevalence of emotional problems and conduct disorders since the 1930s, a new study has warned.

According to children’s charity NCH about one in ten children now have a mental health disorder at a clinically significant level.

Releasing the findings, the charity argues that they suggest there is a decline in emotional wellbeing among today’s children and young people.

A YouGov survey conducted for NCH also found that the British public believe emotional wellbeing to be twice as important as social class in their own social mobility.

It was classed as more important than family income, physical health and IQ.

NCH claims that an emotionally well child demonstrates empathy, motivation, self awareness, an ability to manage their feelings and good social skills.

Clare Tickell, chief executive of NCH, said that fewer emotionally-well children in the UK will have far reaching social consequences.

“The lack of emotional wellbeing amongst our children and young people is undermining the foundations of any social policy to combat social exclusion, deprivation or lack of social mobility,” she said.

“We urge Gordon Brown and his new cabinet to commit to tackling this hidden and fast growing problem. The emphasis must change from social class to social skills, self esteem and resilience if we are to give the next generation the chance they deserve.”

Further research will be released in the autumn when NCH will launch a major campaign to increase emotional wellbeing for the next generation.