Independent Perspective News

LONDON: An increasing number of youngsters succumb to depression these days. A new study has found that more than a quarter of them, some as young as 10 years of age are so depressed that they contemplate suicide.

Official figures estimate that up to one in five children will require support and help for depression at some time during their upbringing.

But the new report, based on a detailed questionnaire filled in by 100 youngsters, reveals that the true extent of mental illness among youngsters may be much higher.

The findings coincide with the start of National Depression Week, which this year is highlighting the plight of the increasing numbers of children and teenagers who fall prey to such a condition.

"Parents and teachers can no longer ignore the killer condition that is affecting more and more children and young people," said a spokesman for the Depression Alliance, the charity organising National Depression Week which commissioned the new study.

The new survey reveals that while 28 per cent of young people have "had thoughts" about suicide, another 24 per cent knew someone who had tried to kill themselves and 18 per cent actually knew someone who had taken their own life. One in 10 thought being depressed was "a sign of weakness".

"Depression can be successfully treated and it is important that young people or their parents seek professional help," said Marjorie Wallace, chief executive of mental health charity Saneline, the charity's 24-hour helpline.

The study lays stress on better treatment of the mentally ill, including the provision of more support services and increased funding.