ONE in five children suffers from some form of mental health problem, according to new research. An 18-month inquiry by the Mental Health Foundation also found that one in ten youngsters needs professional help for problems ranging from mild anxiety to clinical depression and self-mutilation.
The MHF said that abuse, family breakdown and poverty had contributed to an increase in the number of children found to be suffering. “The nation’s children, the country’s most important resource, are failing to thrive emotionally,” said director June McKerrow.
Yesterday ministers announced an extra pound;84 million to improve services for children and adolescents suffering from mental problems.
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