The mental health of children and adolescents in England has reached unprecedented levels of concern, with more than one million young people referred to mental health services between 2024 and 2025, according to a recent annual report by Dame Rachel de Souza, the children’s commissioner. Anxiety emerged as the most common reason for referral, accounting for 16 percent of cases. This signifies a 10 percent increase over the previous year and nearly doubles figures recorded in 2018-2019.

Experts attribute this rise to a combination of factors, including heightened awareness and a genuine increase in mental health issues, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Beth Mosley, a consultant clinical psychologist, explains that anxiety often serves as the final expression of numerous pressures faced by children. These pressures range from academic demands and social media influences to bullying, family stress, and challenges associated with neurodivergence.

Mosley emphasizes that excessive screen time plays a significant role in exacerbating children’s anxiety. Many children now lead more sedentary and supervised lives, with limited opportunities for unstructured play or solitude—activities fundamental to emotional development. She cautions that while some anxiety is a normal and adaptive response, parents should be vigilant when anxiety becomes so intense or persistent that it disrupts everyday activities such as attending school, sleeping, socializing, or trying new experiences.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Meredith Elkins highlights another factor contributing to worsening anxiety: intensive, overprotective parenting. She warns that the cultural expectation for parents to shield children from all adversity may undermine their capacity to build resilience. Elkins observes that shielding children from uncomfortable emotions and avoiding challenges can reinforce avoidance behaviors and deepen anxiety. Instead, she advocates for a balanced approach where parents remain supportive but encourage children to confront fears and develop coping skills.

Elkins underscores the importance of letting children experience and manage emotional distress, even from an early age. She recounts her own experience with her three-year-old daughter, who initially resisted an Irish dancing class. Through empathy, firm expectations, and gradual exposure to the feared situation, her daughter was eventually able to overcome the challenge and enjoy the activity.

Experts agree that distinguishing between normal anxiety and clinical concerns is key. Signs warranting professional intervention include anxiety that is disproportionate, persistent, or debilitating—manifested by avoidance, low mood, self-harm, panic, or hopelessness. Ensuring timely access to mental health support and fostering environments where children can safely face struggles are critical steps in addressing the escalating mental health crisis among young people.