1.2 Billion People Now Living With Mental Disorders as Experts Warn Children Face Growing Safeguarding Risks
Rising mental health cases across the world are raising fresh concerns about child protection and safeguarding, as experts warn that children and teenagers remain highly vulnerable to emotional trauma, violence, and neglect.
A new study published in The Lancet found that nearly 1.2 billion people lived with mental health conditions in 2023. The research covered 204 countries and examined data collected between 1990 and 2023.
According to the report, mental health disorders increased by 95.5 per cent during the period. Anxiety and depression recorded the highest rise worldwide.
Health experts say the growing crisis could place more children at risk. Many young people already struggle with abuse, family instability, social pressure, and exposure to violence.
Specialists also warn that untreated mental health conditions can affect behaviour and emotional development. In severe cases, the outcome may become dangerous.
Recent events in the United States have strengthened those concerns. Authorities disclosed that a teenager linked to a deadly attack on a mosque in San Diego had previously shown troubling behaviour linked to extremist content and mass shooters.
Police reportedly obtained a court order to remove firearms from the suspect’s family home after concerns emerged over the teenager’s actions and mental state.
Child safeguarding advocates say the development highlights the need for early intervention. They also stress the importance of parental supervision and stronger mental health support systems for children and teenagers.
Meanwhile, many healthcare systems continue to face shortages in psychiatric care. In Iowa, officials are opening a new behavioural health hospital to address delays in treatment caused by a lack of available beds.
Reports showed that some people in crisis spent days waiting in emergency rooms before receiving psychiatric care.
Mental health professionals warn that treatment delays can worsen emotional distress, especially for children already dealing with trauma or neglect.
Experts are now urging governments to strengthen child-focused mental health policies. They also want better access to counselling services in schools and safer support systems for children.
