A perfect storm: Mental health and speech and language challenges
Our latest report reveals that children with speech and language challenges are facing a shocking double disadvantage. We must act now to build mental health services that work for every child.
Children with speech and language challenges are more likely to struggle with mental health issues. But they’re also less likely to be able to get mental health support when they need it. Our report explores the devastating impact this is having on children who struggle with talking and understanding words – and how we can change things for the better.
Sign our wall of hope to show your support.
Why are children with speech and language challenges being denied the support they need?
45% of young people referred to mental health services have been found to have difficulties with language skills. This statistic is shocking – but it is not surprising. Every day, children who struggle with talking and understanding words have to fight to be heard. Facing unfair punishment at school, struggling to make friends, missing out on learning at school, feeling isolated and misunderstood, unable to express how they’re feeling. Is it any wonder that their mental health is suffering?
“[He] went through a period of self-harming when frustrated when he could not produce clear speech.”
“They can’t articulate their needs or how they feel.”
They badly need support. Yet when children and families do reach out for help, they’re met with more barriers. Lots of mental health treatments, like traditional talking therapies, simply aren’t designed for children with speech and language challenges. Mental health professionals often do not have the resources and the training to help them. And there’s a lack of integration between speech and language therapy and mental health services.
The longer children go without support, the worse things get. Their futures are at risk.
What needs to change
Children with speech and language challenges must be able to get mental health support that works for them. Together, we can make that happen. The Government, NHS, and others must recognise the scale of the problem and take action. The Government and NHS must consider the mental health needs of children with speech and language challenges as they work on the new 10 Year Health Plan and Youth Futures Hubs. This is one of the biggest intersections there is for mental health services and other challenges; yet it’s one of the least talked about.
- Mental health practitioners and staff in schools and nurseries must be given the training and tools they need to recognise and support children with speech and language challenges.
- Mental health professionals, speech and language therapists, and others must work together to provide effective support.
- Funders must encourage research into the effectiveness of different therapies for children with speech and language challenges, as well as for school-based programmes that can support them.
- More children should get help with speech, language and communication skills early so that they can identify their feelings and use language to manage them, boosting their ability to self-regulate.
Our solutions are logical, practical, and grounded in evidence. You can find more details in our report.
We must invest in the next generation now, before it’s too late.
