- 1 in 5 Young people in England had a probable mental disorder in 2023
A new survey published by NHS England has revealed that 20.3% of 8 to 16-year-olds had a probable mental disorder in 2023. The figure rises to 23.3% for 17 to 19-year-olds and 21.7% for 20 to 25-year-olds.
After an increase between 2017 and 2020, rates of probable mental disorders have remained at similar levels across all age groups over the past two years.
For the first time since 2017, the survey also examined eating disorders. It found that in 2023, 12.5% of 17 to 19-year-olds had an eating disorder – a significant rise from 0.8% in 2017. Additionally, 5.9% of 20-25-year-olds and 2.6% of 11-16-year-olds were identified as having an eating disorder.
Rates were notably higher in girls, with 4.3% of girls aged 11-16 having an eating disorder compared to just 1% of boys in the same age group.
In response to this, NHS England has established nearly 400 Mental Health Support Teams in schools and colleges. These teams currently provide early mental health support to 35% of all students.
The data comes from the 2023 Mental Health of Children and Young People in England report – the country’s most comprehensive study tracking youth mental health trends. This year’s version covers issues ranging from bullying to substance abuse to anxiety over education, finances and climate change.
The report was published after surveys were conducted earlier this year by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen), the University of Cambridge and the University of Exeter. It was commissioned by NHS England.
Read the full report here.
