What is the mental health crisis facing young Britons?

According to the report, the number of young people with a diagnosed mental health problem in the UK has soared from 1 in 9 in 2017 to 1 in 5 as of 2025, driven by the "social media revolution" and heightened insecurity about their financial future.

What is the state of mental health services for young people in the UK?

Experts warn that the UK's young people are being "let down" by an overburdened and under-resourced mental health system, with over 600,000 young people on waiting lists, and a quarter of them waiting for more than two years to receive support.

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Young Britons Struggle with Mental Health Crisis and Generational Divides

Q: How are young people in the UK feeling about their prospects?

The article states that young Britons are increasingly aware that they may never enjoy the same financial security and standard of living as their parents and grandparents, leading to a "toxic mix of insecurity and pessimism" about their future.

16 Aug

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Summary

Mental health issues soar among young Britons, with 1 in 5 now affected
Young people feel pessimistic about their future financial security and standard of living
Underfunded and overburdened mental health services fail to meet growing demand

Young Britons Struggle with Mental Health Crisis and Generational Divides

According to a recent report, the United Kingdom is facing a concerning mental health crisis among its young adult population. As of August 2025, the number of young people with a diagnosed mental health problem has soared from 1 in 9 in 2017 to 1 in 5 today.

Experts attribute this surge to the "social media revolution" that has "transformed adolescence in just one generation." This digital shift has heightened anxiety, addictions, and the tendency to medicalize the normal ups and downs of life. Simultaneously, young Britons are increasingly aware that they may never enjoy the same financial security and standard of living as their parents and grandparents, leading to a "toxic mix of insecurity and pessimism."

The report warns that political parties must prioritize addressing these widening generational inequalities. Mental health charities echo this sentiment, stating that the UK's young people are being "let down" by an overburdened and under-resourced mental health system. Of the 600,000-plus young people currently on waiting lists, a quarter have been waiting for over two years to receive the support they desperately need.

Addressing this crisis will require a comprehensive plan for growth, skills development, and improved mental health services, not just empty slogans. The future of Britain's youth hangs in the balance, and decisive action is needed to secure their wellbeing and prospects.

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