The Growing Mental Health Crisis: What the Statistics Tell Us

Mental health statistics in England show a substantial rise in difficulties among children, teenagers and working-age adults over the past decade. For families, these figures represent far more than numbers: they reflect challenges that can affect education, relationships, employment and everyday life. The most recent comparable national surveys reveal both the scale of the problem and the particular pressures experienced by teenage girls and women.

Children and young people

In England, the proportion of children aged 8–16 with a probable mental disorder increased from 12.5% in 2017 to 20.3% in 2023. Among 17–19-year-olds, it rose from 10.1% to 23.3% over the same period. Rates were broadly stable between 2022 and 2023, following earlier increases.¹

The difference among older teenagers is particularly striking: in 2023, 31.6% of young women aged 17–19 had a probable mental disorder, compared with 15.4% of young men.¹

Adults and women’s mental health

The NHS Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey, published in 2025, found that common mental health conditions among adults aged 16–64 increased from 17.6% in 2007 to 18.9% in 2014 and 22.6% in 2023–24. In the latest survey, 24.2% of adult women had a common mental health condition, compared with 15.4% of men.²

Demand for mental health support

NHS figures published in February 2026 recorded 2.23 million people in contact with mental health services in England at the end of December 2025. At that point, 512,129 people had an open referral with children and young people’s mental health services. These service figures are different from population prevalence estimates, but illustrate the substantial demand for support.³

Why timely support matters

Mental health difficulties can affect every part of family life. Recognising problems early, understanding their causes and accessing appropriate psychological support can help children, adults and families find a way forward. My Family Psychologist provides psychological therapy and assessment for children, young people and adults, alongside support for parents and families.

Sources

1. NHS England (2023), Mental Health of Children and Young People in England, 2023, Part 1: Mental Health. https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/mental-health-of-children-and-young-people-in-england/2023-wave-4-follow-up/part-1-mental-health
2. NHS England (2025), Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey 2023/24, Chapter 1: Common mental health conditions. https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/adult-psychiatric-morbidity-survey/survey-of-mental-health-and-wellbeing-england-2023-24/common-mental-health-conditions
3. NHS England (2026), Mental Health Services Monthly Statistics, Performance December 2025 (end-of-year final figures). https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/mental-health-services-monthly-statistics/performance-december-2025