A recent analysis has revealed that over one million children in England, approximately one in 10, have been referred to, waiting for, or receiving mental health services. This data highlights the significant challenges young people are currently facing in terms of distress.
Dame Rachel de Souza, the Children’s Commissioner, has expressed grave concerns about the crisis in young people’s mental health. While the reasons behind the surge in referrals are complex, anxiety emerged as the primary cause, with a notable increase in demand for those suspected of having autism and neurodevelopmental conditions.
According to the annual report, there were 1,048,965 children actively involved in referrals to children and young people’s mental health services in the year leading up to March 2025. This figure nearly doubled from previous years, with a substantial 9.5% increase in the past year alone.
A Government review highlighted various factors contributing to the rise in demand for mental health services, including increased distress among young individuals and a trend towards medicalizing mental health issues. The authors emphasized that the rise in diagnoses of conditions like ADHD and autism may not necessarily indicate a higher prevalence but rather improved recognition and changing social patterns.
The report also revealed a significant rise in referrals for suspected autism, neurodevelopmental conditions, and anxiety. Anxiety accounted for a considerable portion of referrals, with children under 10 more likely to be referred for neurodevelopmental conditions, particularly suspected autism.
The waiting time for treatment for children in the year ending March 2025 averaged 128 days, with a concerning number of children waiting over two years for treatment. Dame Rachel emphasized the urgent need for increased support and resources to address the overwhelming demand for mental health services.
She called for a comprehensive approach involving collaboration across government sectors to improve children’s mental health outcomes. The ongoing reforms in mental health strategy and special educational needs and disabilities system were noted as crucial opportunities to enhance children’s mental health and well-being.