Nearly half of young people say their mental health affects their attendance at school or college, according to a report by the charity Mind.
The post-lockdown generation is said to be experiencing difficulties, with 48% of 18-year-olds (the COVID cohort) and 45% of 22-year-olds struggling.
Abdirizak Mohamed, 23, told Sky News about the mental health issues he has faced.
“I think the only thing I remember was a very low mood, and every time I woke up I felt I didn’t want to see anyone,” he said.
“I didn’t want to see people because I couldn’t show myself. I am a person who smiles a lot, and I couldn’t show people my smile.”
He added: “As a young person, if you keep everything to yourself you harm yourself, and that’s also one of the biggest things that can destroy you.
“You put pressure on yourself. I used to do that as well.”
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Increased demand for support
Waiting lists for GP appointments and children and adult mental health services can be up to two years, and this time is invaluable when a child or young person is suffering.
The government announced in July it would launch eight “Young Futures Hubs” this year to help teenagers at risk of mental health problems, with 50 to be rolled out by 2029, but Mind’s report said locations are yet to be confirmed.
Maria Slevin, from No Limits, a charity providing prevention, early intervention and crisis support, told Sky News there had been an increase in young people using its services since the pandemic.
“We see young people who can’t engage in school, maybe they’re having trouble socialising, and are suffering from anxiety, or self-harm,” she explained.
“Young people are also experiencing suicidal ideation,” she added.
“All these conditions have increased.”
Immediate help ‘imperative’
The charity provides a walk-in service that doesn’t require a referral from a GP or medical professional. A child or young person does not need an appointment either.
“Normally young people would go via their GP and then possibly end up on one of the waiting lists, and we know that waiting lists are really long and are increasing,” said Ms Slevin.
“Having to wait for support is only going to exacerbate their mental health issues, so being able to access support immediately is imperative.”
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Abdirizak was told about No Limits through his college.
“They will help you because they listen, and they’re going to give you a voice, which is very helpful,” he said.
“It takes one step. Don’t keep it to yourself because it will destroy you.”
Minesh Patel, associate director of policy and influencing at Mind, told Sky News hubs such as No Limits are vital to help children and young people in a time sensitive way.
“Not needing a referral is crucial. It can break down the stigma around mental health by not having to go through your GP or through a healthcare professional,” he said.
“We’ve got half a million people on waiting lists. Almost a third of them have been waiting two years, and that can just lead to somebody’s health deteriorating – their mental health and their physical health.
“Early support hubs are an incredible example of support that intervenes early.”
Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected] in the UK.
Alternatively, you can call Mind’s support line on 0300 102 1234, or NHS on 111.
