England is facing a serious child and adolescent mental health crisis, experts have warned after the number of referrals to mental health services exceeded one million in a single year for the first time
Data for the 2024/2025 period show that more than one million children and young people were referred for assessment or treatment, representing an increase of almost 10 percent compared with the previous year and nearly double the figure recorded six years ago. Experts warn that the system is no longer able to keep pace with growing demand, leaving tens of thousands of children waiting months—or even years—for support.
Anxiety was the most common reason for referral, accounting for around 16 percent of all cases. There has also been a significant increase in the number of children suspected of having autism spectrum disorders and other neurodevelopmental conditions, with these children often facing the longest waits for appropriate support.
Children’s Commissioner Rachel de Souza said the figures clearly demonstrate the scale of the problem and stressed that children’s mental health can no longer be viewed separately from their experiences at school, within their families, and in their communities. She emphasized the need for closer collaboration between the health, education, and social care sectors to ensure that children receive support when they need it.
According to the report, more than one-third of children referred for treatment are still waiting to begin therapy, while more than 60,000 have been waiting for help for over two years. Experts warn that prolonged delays increase the risk of deteriorating mental health, poor educational outcomes, strained relationships with peers and family members, and the development of more severe mental health conditions.
The mental health charity Mind believes that the forthcoming national mental health strategy provides an opportunity for a comprehensive reform of the system, with a stronger focus on early intervention and accessible community-based support.
