Mental health problems in children

On a BBc interview in April 08 Bob Reitemeier, Chief Executive of The Children's Society, discussed preliminary evidence from The Good Childhood Inquiry. "The survey of 8,000 14-16 year olds, showed 27% of young people agreed with the statement "I often feel depressed". In a seperate online vote, conducted by CBBC Newsround for the inquiry, 78% of those who voted said they felt fine, good or really good about their health, however a worrying 22% felt bad or really bad. "

"Concern about children's mental health and well being comes admisdst on-going anxiety about children's health more generally. Two-thirds (66%) of those surveyed in the GfK NOP poll said the increase in indoor activities, such as computer games and television watching, prevents children nowadays from being more active, while 88% areed children need more education about healthy diets. There was an overwehelming consensus among respondents that physical health plays a crucial role in mental health, with 95% agreeing to some extent that physical activities are an important element in promoting mental health."

The public can contribute to The Good Childhood Inquiry by logging on to http://www.hundredsandthousands.org/ and sharing their childhood memories. A summary of the findings can be downloaded from http://www.goodchildhood.org.uk/ The inquiry's final report and recommendations will be published in early 2009.

This research adds great weight to the beliefs of Going Wild. It shows there are so many benefits in going outside away from commputers and TV and living a more active childhood. For the health and well being of our children we should all try and make play outside a higher priority in our everyday lives.