The difficulties facing the NHS are most often described in terms of physical ailments. Emergency room waiting times and operation delays are typical indicators of how service shortfalls are failing to meet the demand of individuals across the country. While the treatment of physical health is an undoubtedly pressing issue, there is also the growing issue of mental ill-health figures, especially among the younger generation, and, despite its severity, it is far less often discussed.

Staffing issues remain problematic and are leading to record delays in mental health appointments and treatments. This ability to connect with and support those with mental health disorders is crucial and the earlier help can be offered, the more likely individuals are to recover. As such, such delays are not only causing a backlog of patients but also worsening issues for individuals, leading to the development of severe disorders and the need for even more resources.

While this issue affects the whole of our society, there is evidence that mental ill-health is growing adversely among the younger generation. In 2017, it was believed that one child of every nine was identified as having a probable mental health issue. Only five years later, this figure grew to one child in every six. The pandemic, understandably, made the situation much worse and over 80% of young people agreed that the international health crisis has worsened their mental health. 

As of 2019, the leading cause of death for both males and females between the ages of five and thirty-four years was suicide.

There is undoubtedly a need for greater mental health support from national services. Yet, NHS mental health programs face the same issues as their physical health services and, as a result, these rising numbers of children and young people experiencing greater levels of mental health disorders are not being remedied. At the end of last year, nearly 40% of children and young people who were waiting for treatment had already been waiting three months. For those struggling with a disorder, this is an excruciatingly long period of time.

These statistics, however, should not be taken to vilify the NHS or discourage those who dedicate themselves to helping others. The service is underfunded and overstretched. We are, instead, drawing attention to the importance of mental health and the issues associated with psychological disorders remaining a lesser-discussed topic. Mental health disorders are growing in number as options for support decrease.

As the younger generation ages, these issues will develop and, if left untreated, become more severe and ubiquitous. It is, as such, immensely important that we direct greater efforts toward supporting children and young people as they face increasing levels of mental ill-health.

At Bristol Counselling and Psychotherapy, we are reaching out to offer support to individuals and our community. If you feel the need to discuss your mental health and wish to begin seeking counselling, then please get in touch with a member of our team.