Anxiety top concern for children seeking help from Childline in Wales

 

Childline provided over 200 counselling sessions for children in Wales dealing with anxiety in the first six months of 2024/25, according to new data from the NSPCC-run service.

The sessions accounted for a quarter of all mental health and wellbeing-related calls during that period, highlighting anxiety as the primary mental health issue for young people seeking support.

The reasons behind these rising anxiety levels are varied, with young people frequently citing bullying, body image pressures, and challenges at school.

Broader societal issues, including climate change, the UK riots, and global conflict, have also exacerbated their concerns.

This release comes as the UK marks Children’s Mental Health Week, which runs from 3rd to 9th February.

Organised by the charity Place2Be, this year’s theme, “Know Yourself, Grow Yourself,” encourages children to develop self-awareness and resilience.

Shaun Friel, Director of Childline, acknowledged the severity of the situation. “It’s deeply concerning that so many children and young people are reaching out to us because they’re struggling with anxiety. We know how overwhelming these feelings can be, often leaving young people feeling trapped and unsure where to turn,” he said.

A Childline user, an 11-year-old girl, described her struggle with self-perception: “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.”

Childline is urging young people experiencing anxiety to reach out to its confidential service, available 24/7 through phone or online channels.

Addressing the causes of anxiety

Experts agree that ongoing social pressures, combined with global and political instability, are affecting young people’s mental health.

Cecilia Corbetta, Head of Parenting at Place2Be, explained that children need support to develop coping mechanisms. “It’s so important for children to have the space and support to understand their emotions and develop positive ways to cope with challenges,” she said.

Place2Be, operating in over 700 schools across England, Wales, and Scotland, aims to equip children with self-awareness through its “Know Yourself, Grow Yourself” initiative.

Cecilia added, “By helping children reflect on their strengths and what makes them unique, we can empower them to feel more in control and hopeful about the future.”

In its counselling sessions, Childline advises children to try techniques such as deep breathing, physical activity, and grounding exercises to manage anxiety. The charity also stresses the importance of seeking support, whether from trusted adults, friends, or counsellors.

Support for families

For parents concerned about their child’s anxiety, Place2Be recommends open communication and understanding potential triggers.

The charity also suggests promoting healthy routines, such as regular sleep and exercise, and modelling positive coping behaviours. If a child’s anxiety persists, families are encouraged to seek professional support.

Childline remains a vital resource for young people across Wales, providing a safe space for children to discuss their fears and anxieties.

As Shaun Friel emphasised, “Childline is here to provide a safe, confidential space to talk about whatever is worrying them – at any time of the day or night.”