Prof Peter Fonagy, who heads an independent review into mental health, ADHD and autism commissioned nine months ago, has stated that accusations of a snowflake generation are inaccurate. He emphasized that genuine increases in mental distress among children and young people are occurring, with anxiety, depression, self-harm and eating disorders being the most prevalent conditions.
Fonagy attributed the rise in mental health problems to multiple factors including economic and employment uncertainty, social media pressures, and an overall more difficult environment for young people compared to previous generations. He noted that about one in four individuals aged 16 to 24 are currently struggling with mental health issues. While acknowledging that greater awareness and reduced stigma may lead to more people seeking help, Fonagy maintains that the underlying increase in mental health problems is real rather than merely reflective of changing attitudes toward diagnosis.
The review, which involved more than 100 experts and families with lived experience of mental health difficulties, is expected to be published later this week. The findings will likely influence government policy across NHS services, benefits, and support for young people not in education, employment or training. Fonagy drew from his own experience with mental health challenges as a teenager, crediting therapy with potentially saving his life and motivating his current work.
The review notes that the trend affects both boys and girls, though it becomes particularly pronounced in girls from around age 12. Sexual aggression and societal expectations placed on young women were identified as contributing factors. The disruptions caused by the pandemic are also cited as exacerbating existing mental health problems. Despite some positive developments such as mental health teams being deployed to schools, Fonagy stated that the current NHS system is “not fit for purpose,” with one in three people referred to mental health services still waiting after a year. He emphasized that addressing these issues requires comprehensive action across education, employment, housing and family support systems.
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