One in four girls depressed by age 14

Research conducted by University College London (UCL) alongside the National Children's Bureau (NCB) found that boys and girls have similar emotional problems from infancy up until the age of 11.

However, by age 14, 18 per cent of girls were reported to have symptoms of depression and anxiety, compared with 12 per cent of boys.

Asked about their own mental health at age 14, 24 per cent of girls exhibited signs of depression, compared with nine per cent of boys.

Dr Praveetha Patalay, lead author of the study from UCL, said the findings highlight "the increasing mental health difficulties faced by girls today compared to previous generations".

The researchers also said they found that generally, 14-year-olds from better-off families were less likely to have high levels of depressive symptoms compared to their peers from poorer homes.
 
The research was based on analysis of information on more than 10,000 children born in 2000/01 who are taking part in the Millennium Cohort Study.

Professor Emla Fitzsimons, director of the Millennium Cohort Study, said the study highlights the extent of mental health problems among young adolescents in the UK today, adding that further research is needed to understand the causes and consequences of the findings.
 
Anna Feuchtwang, chief executive of the National Children's Bureau, said the results of the study are concerning.

"With a quarter of 14-year-old girls showing signs of depression, it's now beyond doubt that this problem [of depression] is reaching crisis point," she said.

"There is evidence that parents may be underestimating their daughters' mental health needs.

"Conversely, parents may be picking up on symptoms in their sons, which boys don't report themselves. It's vital that both children and their parents can make their voices heard to maximise the chances of early identification and access to specialist support".

The government is currently attempting to boost children's mental health services. In January Prime Minister Theresa May pledged to make improving mental health support a key priority for the government.

She has said she wants schools to be handed a greater role in identifying and supporting children and young people with mental health problems.