Anxiety the top mental health concern for children contacting Childline, shows new stats
More than two hundred counselling sessions about anxiety have been given to children in Wales in the last six months
In the first six months of 2024/25, the NSPCC-run service delivered 205 counselling sessions related to anxiety to children known to be from Wales, both online and over the phone.
This represents a quarter (25%) of all counselling sessions delivered about mental health and wellbeing during this time.
Navigating problems at school, bullying and body image concerns were some of the reasons children and young people cited for experiencing anxiety.
Childline also heard that ongoing social and political issues, such as the UK riots, climate change and world conflict, were also increasing feelings of anxiety in young people.
One girl, aged 11, told Childline, “I’m so self-conscious of how I look, my personality, what people think about me. It makes me feel anxious. I know everyone is different, but I feel different in a bad way.”
Childline's advice for children struggling with anxiety:
- Practice Deep Breathing: When you feel anxious, try breathing in slowly through your nose for a count of five, then exhale slowly through your mouth for another count of five. Focusing on your breath can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety.
- Engage in Physical Activity: Physical exercise can be a great way to improve your mood. Whether it's going for a walk, dancing, or playing a sport, find an activity you enjoy which can help to manage anxious feelings.
- Stay Present: Grounding techniques can help you stay focused on the present moment. For example, try to identify five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.
- Challenge Negative Thoughts: Pay attention to negative thoughts that may be contributing to your anxiety. Try to reframe them by focusing on positive aspects or considering alternative perspectives
- Reach Out for Support: Remember, you don't have to face anxiety alone. Talking to a trusted adult, friend, or counsellor can provide you with support and guidance.
Shaun Friel, Childline Director, said
“It’s deeply concerning that so many children and young people are reaching out to us because they’re struggling with anxiety. We know how overwhelming these feelings can be, often leaving young people feeling trapped and unsure where to turn.
“From worries about school and bullying to the pressures of body image and fears about the future, young people are facing a range of challenges that can seriously impact their mental health and wellbeing.
“This Children’s Mental Health Week, we want every child to know that they are not alone. Childline is here to provide a safe, confidential space to talk about whatever is worrying them – at any time of the day or night.”