CYP Now - Referrals to children’s mental health services ‘highest on record’

The number of referrals to child and adolescent mental health services (CAHMS) has reached a record high, according to analysis of NHS annual data by charity Mind.

Financial pressure on families is damaging children's mental health, according to Mind. Picture: Seventyfour/Adobe Stock

Around 507,738 young people have been referred to support services for their mental health, which Mind says is the highest figure on record.

The charity says that the cost-of-living crisis and the pandemic are key drivers behind the increase, with more than 50 per cent of all youth referrals for mental health problems coming from households with at least one parent who is struggling financially.

Young people dealing with such issues report sacrificing their social life, not joining extra-curricular activities or going out, prompting seclusion and loneliness.

Teenager Denait comes from a low-income household and has experienced mental health issues for six years.

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