This generation's children growing up in 'toxic stress climate'

Based on a survey, this generation’s youngsters are dealing with enormous stress and pressure due to a ‘24/7 online culture’.

14:23 20 January 2014

In a survey that was participated by 2,000 children, charity YoungMinds has discovered that Britain’s youngsters are growing up in an “unprecedented toxic climate” of stress and pressure in a “24/7 online culture where they can never switch off.” 

 

Half of the participants said they believed they would be a failure if they did not get good grades while half said that they had been bullied. Meanwhile, about 33per cent said that they did not know where to turn to get help when they feel depressed or anxious. 

 

In addition, four in 10 said they skipped meals to try to stay thin while more than 50per cent said they had viewed online pornography. 

 

Lucie Russell, director of campaigns at YoungMinds, said: "We are sitting on a mental health timebomb."

 

As an ambassador to the drive for awareness and action, Frankie Sandford, of The Saturdays, now calls for improvements to help youngsters in facing their challenges. She said: “I get to talk to a lot of young people and I know there are so many who are really suffering and struggling with life.

 

"That's why I really support the YoungMinds Vs campaign because it's raising awareness of the importance of young people having good mental health and everything that can be done to make that happen, including young people getting access to help when they need it."