More than one million children in England—approximately one in ten—were either referred to, awaiting, or receiving treatment from mental health services over the 12 months ending in March 2025, according to new data from NHS England. The figure represents a significant increase from 563,639 referrals in 2018-19, and marks a 9.5% rise in the past year alone.

Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza highlighted the growing demand in her annual report, describing the situation as a crisis facing young people’s mental health. The report showed anxiety as the most common reason for referrals, while suspected cases of autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions saw some of the sharpest rises.

Specifically, referrals for suspected autism increased by 47%, from 65,530 to 96,393. Other neurodevelopmental conditions saw a nearly 25% growth, climbing from 107,479 to 133,435 referrals. Anxiety-related referrals rose by 12%, from 151,479 to 169,389 over the same period.

Despite the substantial rise in young people seeking support, Dame Rachel’s report indicated there is no single explanation for the surge in referrals. She emphasized the need for a fundamental change in how mental health services are delivered to children and young people, calling for a more integrated approach involving health, education, and social care sectors.

“The way we look to support young people’s mental health must change,” Dame Rachel said. “We cannot address mental health alone in isolation. Improving children’s wellbeing requires action across government.”

The report underscores the importance of coordinated efforts to ensure children receive timely and appropriate support, reflecting growing concerns about the mental health and wellbeing of the nation’s youth amid increasing service demand.