The UK is facing a severe mental health crisis. Many people struggle with conditions like anxiety and depression, with one in six people in England experiencing mental health challenges each week (Mental Health Foundation). The situation is worsening, particularly for young people, who are increasingly reporting concerns about their mental well-being (NHS).
The British Medical Association or BMA reports that between 2016 and 2022, the number of children and young people seeking mental health services grew nearly four times faster than the NHS’s Psychiatry Workforce. Without intervention, the NHS could be 15,800 mental health workers short by 2030 (BMA).
While government efforts to expand services are important, there is also a growing understanding that strong social relationships can help address some of the challenges posed by the Mental Health Crisis in the UK.
Understanding mental health crisis in the UK: Causes and effects
The number of people with a mental health condition accessing treatment has risen significantly. From 2000 to 2014, the percentage of people seeking help increased from 23.1% to 39.4%. More people are struggling, but more are also seeking help, showing that mental health is being taken seriously. However, the demand for services is putting pressure on the system (NHS Digital).
The NHS is currently facing a severe workforce shortage. Many healthcare workers are leaving due to poor working conditions, low pay, burnout, and excessive workloads. This has worsened the crisis, and the NHS is not prepared to handle it (Health Foundation).
Additionally, the mental health crisis is hurting the economy. Research by the Mental Health Foundation and the London School of Economics (LSE) reveals that the cost of mental health issues in the UK is at least £117.9 billion per year (Mental Health Foundation).
COVID-19’s impact on the mental health crisis
The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the situation. According to the charity Action for Children, there has been a 29% increase in the number of children expressing mental health concerns since before the pandemic (Action for Children). Mind, another charity, found that 88% of young people felt loneliness had made their mental health worse, with about a third reporting significant worsening since March 2020 (Mind).
Government’s plan to improve mental health support
It is clear that the government has taken steps to address the mental health crisis in the UK. Over 8,500 additional NHS staff have been recruited to treat patients. Extra funding has been allocated to Young Futures Hubs, and Mental Health Support Teams are being set up in schools across the country (Gov.uk).
Building a strong mental health foundation
While NHS services are essential, policymakers need to implement initiatives that promote positive mental health. The UK Health Foundation is responsible for this cause. Established in 1949, the foundation creates a safe space for affected individuals to talk about their problems, which helps reduce stress and anxiety (UK Health Foundation).
Social connections and mental health
In addition to building a strong mental health foundation, social relationships play a crucial role in the mental health crisis in the UK. The Social Prescribing Network provides this support to individuals across Britain. This system, launched by the NHS, helps people with a wide range of social, emotional, or practical needs. It connects patients to non-medical groups and activities in the local community, offering lasting benefits for their health and well-being.
Research shows that people with stronger social bonds are more likely to live longer, healthier lives. Social interactions can reduce the risk of conditions like depression and anxiety, and communities with stronger networks are better able to help those struggling with mental health challenges.
Impact of close friendships on well-being
Having close friendships has a significant impact on a person’s well-being. A study conducted by University College London (UCL) found that people with stronger social bonds have a 50% greater chance of living longer than those with weaker social relationships. Friendships provide emotional support, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Loneliness and social isolation
Britain is lonelier than ever. The UK’s Community Life Survey, conducted a survey between October 2023 and March 2024, found that round 3.1 million people in England feel lonely often or always (ONS). Young adults, especially those aged 16 to 29, are at higher risk. Therefore, investing in social infrastructure is essential to combat loneliness and address the mental health crisis in the UK.
Investment in social infrastructure
Social infrastructure includes public spaces such as libraries, parks, cafes, museums, and places of worship. People who spend time in these places have the opportunity to connect with others which in turn improves their well-being. Unfortunately, due to funding cuts, many public facilities have stopped working. Over the last decade, nearly 800 playgrounds have shut down (Local Government Association). Such decisions have negatively affected people’s emotional well-being with more people feeling lonely and isolated.
Stigma, discrimination, and mental illness
Stigma and discrimination can worsen mental health issues. People with mental illness may not seek help because they fear being judged. They may not speak to friends, family, or even a doctor, as they fear being labelled as mentally ill. This stigma can have devastating consequences. In the UK, a man dies by suicide every two hours (Samaritans). Tackling stigma is critical to addressing the mental health crisis in the UK.
With that being said, the government must develop better plans and policies to address the mental health crisis in the UK in the long run. More initiatives, like social prescribing, should be implemented to support people with a wide range of social, emotional, and practical needs. Restoring public infrastructure across the country also plays a vital role in bringing people together and strengthening their social connections. Furthermore, increasing funding and employing more trained professionals are also essential steps in mitigating this crisis.