Over recent years, there has been a significant rise in children and young people attending A&E units in England, in a clear mental health crisis. An increase in children as young as 6 years old turning up in drastic numbers for things such as self-harm, emotional crisis, or eating disorders. These numbers have risen by 36% between 2019 and 2025, as quoted by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health analysis. A lack of support and services has been identified as one of the main issues resulting in these numbers increasing. The British Government has stated recently that it is looking to improve these services as quickly as possible, with plans being put in place sooner rather than later. 

Infographic - Mental Health In Children (2020-2025) | Source: The Doctor

This analysis is based on figures obtained via the Freedom of Information Act from NHS England, which found that over 75,000 attendances were made by children and young people in distress over their mental health in 2025. That is a 20,000 increase since 2019, which is the biggest rise we have seen in quite a while. The increase is a drastic 8% rise, which includes cases where families, carers and police have brought in children and young people. Some of these cases have resulted in those in extreme mental crisis becoming aggressive or having challenging behaviour requiring more resources. 

RCPCH Logo | Source: RCPCH

RCPCH – The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health – officer for mental health Dr Sam Jones has shown concern over that matter over the last few years, as of recently stating, "Behind every one of these figures is a child or young person in distress and a family who didn't know where else to turn. Emergency departments are a vital safety net, but they were never designed to be a place where children in mental health crisis wait for days at a time. This is a national crisis that will only get worse without urgent intervention."

Dr Sam Jones - RCPCH | Source: RCPCH

Regarding the recent concerns involving all workers within the mental health sector, a Department of Health and Social Security spokesman has clarified that improvements were already being made. With clear investment plans being put into place involving mental health teams within schools and more than 150 new mental health clubs in community locations being put into place. "No child should have to reach crisis point before getting the support they need," exclaimed the spokesman. 

If you or a loved one are facing any mental health issues, please do not be afraid to ask for help. Remember, you are never alone!