Young People Face Real Mental Health Crises, Not Just a 'Snowflake Generation,' Says Review Head

Accusations that young people today are a "snowflake generation" are inaccurate, according to Professor Peter Fonagy, the head of an independent review into mental health, ADHD, and autism. Fonagy told the BBC that there has been a genuine increase in mental distress among children and young people, with anxiety, depression, self-harm, and eating disorders being the most common issues.

Fonagy stated that it is "harder to be young" now due to economic and employment uncertainty, compounded by the challenges presented by social media. He emphasized that these are real and serious challenges that today's youth face.

The review, commissioned nine months ago by Wes Streeting, is anticipated to influence government policies across various sectors, including NHS services, benefits, and support for young people not engaged in education, employment, or training.

Fonagy chose to speak to the BBC ahead of the review's publication, expressing concern that discussions about ADHD and autism might overshadow the broader mental health crisis. While acknowledging that increased awareness leads more people to seek medical help, he is adamant that the trend reflects a real rise in mental health problems. He noted that these issues particularly affect girls from around age 12 and that societal expectations placed on young women contribute to these difficulties.

Conditions observed include anxiety severe enough to cause school avoidance, and depression so profound that individuals struggle with sleep and appetite, questioning the worth of their lives. The pandemic further exacerbated these problems due to life disruptions, according to Fonagy's report.

Young individuals who have experienced mental health struggles shared their perspectives, stressing the importance of government action based on the review's findings. Omari, 22, who attempted suicide at 15 due to bullying, recounted feeling that support arrived too late. Mattea, 17, expressed uncertainty about her future, feeling let down by adults and compelled to navigate her life independently.

Fonagy critiqued the current support systems, stating the NHS is "not fit for purpose" and highlighting that one in three individuals referred to mental health services wait over a year for help. He did acknowledge positive steps like the rollout of mental health teams in schools.

However, Fonagy stressed that tackling the issue requires a societal effort, extending beyond healthcare to education, employment, housing, and families. He pointed to cuts in youth services over the past decade as a factor contributing to fewer opportunities for young people to socialize and develop a sense of belonging, which is crucial for good mental health.

Loneliness among young people has also increased since 2000, linked by Fonagy to the rise in phone and social media use, which reduces face-to-face contact and disrupts sleep patterns. He also suggested that simple acts of support, like noticing changes in a friend's behavior and expressing concern, can make a significant difference.

Fonagy expressed hope that collective action can address these issues. "I want young people to hear that when they feel anxious, depressed or distressed, that it's a real problem, but a problem we can do something about," he said, drawing on his own experience of receiving life-saving therapy as a teenager. "When I needed help, I got it. I want everyone to have that chance."