Schoolgirls Are Baffled With Emotional Problems Now More Than Ever, Research Says

An English study found a significant increase in the risk of schoolgirls facing emotional problems. The study conducted by the Journal of Adolescent Health reviewed the survey data collated in 2009 and compared the results to present surveys, asking the same batch of questions.

The survey five years ago was participated by 1,600 students aged 11-13 years. The researchers were surprised when they found a 7 percent increase in the incidence of schoolgirls reporting emotional issues. The data for boys were fairly the same and did not show any significant deviation.

The online questionnaire asked the participants how strongly they agree to a particular series of statements, which are said to gauge emotional health problems. The demographical data of the girls who participated in the past and recent studies were fairly similar. Both boys and girls reported a wide range of issues, including those that affect their social relationships, behavioural demeanor and peer connections. But what struck the researchers most is the notable shoot of emotional problems amongst schoolgirls; they think this is due to individual pressures.

One reason that the researchers pointed is the immense possibility of these girls wanting to attain unrealistic body and personal images, as influenced by social media. Furthermore, a rise in the association of women and sex may contribute a role. The study also suggests that cuts to mental health services funding may also be an important factor. It is highly possible that teachers focus on classroom-disrupting behavioural and conduct issues more than the emotional side of kids, specifically in an environment where there are limited resources, researcher Dr Helen Sharpe, of University College London, told the BBC. The authors suggests that the staff should be provided with appropriate tools to detect emotional issues. Additionally, they reiterate that the public should have more access and availability options for mental health services.

"This research is shocking further concrete evidence of the serious and worsening state of children and young people's mental health in this country," says Sarah Brennan of the charity YoungMinds. "Young people tell us they feel enormous pressures today ranging from bullying, the 24/7 online environment and sexual pressures to issues around body image, school stress and family breakdown." She believes that these issues are targeting schoolgirls specifically.

The Royal College of Psychiatrists says that a national survey on children’s mental health should be executed urgently, as the last comprehensive effort was performed by the Office for National Statistics more than 10 years ago. This new survey aims to obtain accurate data estimates that can help detect mental health issues, and subsequently plan appropriate interventions.

To contact the writer, email rinadoctor00@gmail.com