- Data shows a 53 percent increase in children’s referrals to mental health services
The number of referrals to emergency mental health care for children has risen by more than half in three years, official figures show.
Doctors warn that demand for care is now so high that many children cannot access help until they reach ‘crisis point’.
Data analyzed by the Royal College of Psychiatrists shows a 53 per cent increase in referrals to Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Crisis Teams (CAMHS) in England.
There were 32,521 referrals in 2022/23, compared to 21,242 in 2019/20.
The council warned that without prompt treatment, children could develop long-term conditions that could affect their education, social development and health.
Data analyzed by the Royal College of Psychiatrists shows a 53 per cent increase in referrals to child and adolescent mental health crisis teams in England (Stock Image)
Dr. Elaine Lockhart is the chair of the university’s child and adolescent faculty
Dr. Elaine Lockhart, chair of the university’s child and adolescent faculty, said: ‘It is unacceptable that so many children and young people reach a crisis point before they can access care. We cannot allow this to become the new normal.
‘Serious mental illness is not just a problem for adults. The need for specialized mental health care for children and young people is constantly growing.’
The council said about half of mental health conditions develop before the age of 14, and three-quarters before the age of 24.
But data shows that young people under the age of 18 who are waiting for follow-up treatment after a GP referral due to psychological problems have already waited an average of five months and in the worst case almost two years.
The council said many of these under-18s are suffering worsening mental health while on NHS waiting lists for treatment.
The RCP said last year’s government announcement of an additional £5 million to improve access to existing early support hubs was welcome, but predicts an additional £125 million to £205 million will be needed to establish hubs in every local authority , with operating costs of at least £114 million. a year.
Data shows that young people under the age of 18 who are waiting for follow-up treatment after a GP referral due to psychological problems have already waited an average of five months and in the worst case almost two years (Stock Image)
An NHS England spokesperson said: ‘The latest figures show that the NHS is now treating more young people than ever before, and the health service is expanding mental health services as quickly as possible within the current five-year funding arrangements to meet increasing demand . with 44 per cent more children and young people accessing support since 2019/20.
‘Early support for children and young people with mental health problems is a priority for the NHS.’