The power of the ordinary Half of adults who have a mental health difficulty had experienced symptoms by the age of 14. Many children struggle with their transitions to secondary school or are affected by exposure to risk factors such as poverty, disability, discrimination or trauma during their childhoods. But many of these problems are preventable. A Million & Me was developed by BBC Children in Need to explore how ordinary, trusted relationships can help children who are beginning to struggle with their mental wellbeing. Projects have showcased early intervention approaches, and provided intelligence for the wider children’s mental health and wellbeing system.
However, this
report raises concerns that this awareness is not translating into enough action to prevent mental ill health in children at scale. It recommends further investment from governments and charitable funders in programmes to boost children’s mental health and prevent later problems.
Centre for Mental Health
