Sharp Increase in Children Admitted to Hospitals for Mental Health Issues

A decade-long study highlights a 65% rise in admissions, with eating disorders and self-harm among key drivers.

Emergency hospital admissions for children with mental health issues have risen by 65% over the past decade, according to a University College London study.
The increase is particularly significant among girls aged 11 to 15, with admissions for this group more than doubling since 2012.
Cases of eating disorders in children have surged sixfold, with nearly 3,000 admissions recorded in 2021-22, compared to fewer than 500 a decade earlier.
Experts point to social media's potential role in exacerbating mental health struggles, particularly through harmful content affecting body image and self-esteem.
Researchers and clinicians call for urgent investment in prevention, early intervention, and better integration of physical and mental health care on hospital wards.