Childline has provided over 1,100 counselling sessions to young people in Scotland who were struggling with suicidal thoughts, according to new data. During the period spanning from April 2023 to March 2024, more than half (55%) of all counselling sessions held were related to mental health issues. Among the 8,190 counselling sessions delivered by the charity throughout Scotland during this time, 4,485 addressed concerns such as depression and anxiety. Specifically, 1,109 sessions focused on suicidal thoughts and feelings, with an additional 671 addressing self-harm. Youngsters also highlighted feelings of loneliness and stress as significant challenges they were facing.
One girl of primary school age who reached out to Childline expressed her struggles with self-consciousness and anxiety about her appearance and how others perceive her. She shared that reading and drawing served as her escape. Another 11-year-old girl revealed her feelings of loneliness at school and the difficulty she faced in discussing her emotions with her parents, finding solace in speaking to Childline.
Adeniyi Alade, service head of Childline in Aberdeen, emphasized the importance of supporting young people’s mental health and well-being. He reassured young individuals that Childline counsellors are available 24/7 to listen and provide help for various concerns, including anxiety, loneliness, and depression. Alade also stressed the need for wider availability of mental health support across communities in Scotland, urging the government to take action in reaching every young person in need.
Mental Wellbeing Minister Maree Todd highlighted the government’s commitment to providing £15 million annually to local authorities for community-based mental health and well-being support aimed at prevention, early intervention, and promoting positive mental health among children and young people. She also noted the ongoing investment of £16 million to support counselling services in secondary schools for children aged 10 and above.
Childline offers additional support through its website with advice pages and resources, as well as direct contact through phone (0800 1111) or 1-2-1 chat on their website. In times of difficulty, Samaritans are available round-the-clock at 116 123 or through email at jo@samaritans.org.
Youngsters in Scotland accessing counselling services for mental health concerns, including suicidal thoughts, highlights the importance of providing adequate support and resources for their well-being. With initiatives like Childline and government-backed programmes, efforts are being made to address these critical issues and ensure young people have access to the help they need.