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NHS England review finds mental distress levels have increased substantially across the population

An NHS England report released today states that mental health services are failing to meet rising demand and recommends urgent changes.

NHS England mental health services review: what has it found and what does it recommend?
File photo NHS England mental health services review: what has it found and what does it recommend? Photo: The Guardian

Rising rates of common disorders

The review confirms that one in four young people aged 16 to 24 now have a common mental disorder. This figure represents an increase from one in six recorded in 1993. Self-harm cases and eating disorders have also risen significantly over the same period.

System capacity and costs

Current waiting times leave patients becoming more distressed before accessing a diagnosis. The annual cost of mental ill health stands at 300bn pounds for England. Officials warn that continuing without reform is not sustainable for society.

Future projections for children

About four million children are currently in serious distress according to the data. If current trends continue, this number could reach 4.5 million by 2030. Severe mental illness rates like bipolar disorder have remained stable despite other increases.

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