Anxiety Emerges as Most Common Mental Health Concern for Children Reaching Out to Childline

• Last year Childline delivered more than 500 counselling sessions to children and young people from Scotland with concerns about anxiety. 
• Causes included abuse and trauma, bullying, global concerns and body image issues.  

Last year, the NSPCC service delivered 546 counselling sessions to children in Scotland related to anxiety, representing almost a quarter (22%) of all support given for mental health issues. 

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 worry and concern in young people.

One primary school aged girl in Scotland 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. Reading and drawing are my ways to escape.”  

Another girl in Scotland, aged 15, told Childline: “I’ve been struggling with even basic tasks lately because of anxiety. I get filled with panic, can’t function and then I get angry with myself, so it gets even worse. It’s really frustrating. I want to tell someone but I’m not sure if my problems are important to anyone” Girl, 15 

Childline is a free service available to any young person in the UK. Trained counsellors are available to support with any concerns, queries or questions and can be reached via phone or through their online chat.  

Shaun Friel, Childline Director, said: “Thousands of children are reaching out to us because they’re struggling with their mental health, in particular with anxiety. We know how overwhelming these feelings can be, often leaving young people feeling trapped and unsure of where to turn.

“From the pressures of school and bullying to concerns about their appearance and worries about global issues, like climate change and world conflict, children are telling us they’re carrying an enormous emotional burden.  

“This World Mental Health Day, we want every young person to know that it’s okay to not be okay, and that help is always available. Childline is here 24/7, providing a safe, confidential space where children can talk about their anxieties, no matter how big or small they may seem.” 

To mark World Mental Health Day, the children’s charity has released a series of tips to support both children and parents or carers. The Childline website also has a host of advice for young people.  

Advice for children who may be struggling with anxiety includes:  

1. 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. 
2. 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. 
3. 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.  
4. 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 
5. 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. Childline is available 24/7 to offer confidential assistance whenever you need it. 

Top tips for parents to support children who may be experiencing anxiety includes:  

1. Communicate Openly: Encourage your child to talk about their feelings without judgment.  
2. Understand the Causes: Work together to identify specific situations or thoughts that trigger your child’s anxiety. Understanding these triggers can help when developing effective coping strategies. 
3. Promote Healthy Routines: Ensure your child maintains regular sleep patterns, balanced nutrition, and physical activity to provide a sense of stability when they may be feeling uncertain within themselves.  
4. Model Positive Coping Mechanisms: Demonstrate healthy ways to manage stress, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or physical exercise.  
5. Seek Professional Support When Needed: If your child’s anxiety persists or worsens, consult with a healthcare professional or counsellor.  

Childline is available for young people via the phone on 0800 1111 and online through the 121 chat on the Childline website.