Kids Matter backs call for new approach to mental health
At Kids Matter, we know that strong families and supportive communities are vital for children’s wellbeing. But too often, mental health support focuses on medical interventions rather than addressing the deeper social and relational factors at play. We are therefore pleased to have contributed to the Centre for Social Justice’s (CSJ) latest report, Change the Prescription: A New Approach to Mental Health – a significant piece of research that challenges the prevailing medical model of mental health care and advocates for tackling the root causes of distress.
The report highlights the sharp rise in mental health diagnoses and prescriptions in recent years. Alarmingly, one in five adults in England is now taking antidepressants, and the number of children with probable mental health disorders has risen dramatically. The report emphasises the need to protect children from harmful online content, strengthen community support and promote social prescribing.
CSJ polling also reveals that the majority of GPs believe antidepressants are often prescribed when non-medical interventions would be more appropriate.
Rather than relying solely on medication, Change the Prescription calls for a holistic, preventative approach – one that prioritises strong family connections, education and early intervention. This aligns with Kids Matter’s vision to see every child in need raised in a strong family. We’ve seen firsthand how a child’s wellbeing is deeply connected to their family environment. When children grow up in poverty, family relationships suffer – and the impact can echo through generations. But when parents are supported and equipped with the right tools, children thrive.
That’s why, at Kids Matter, we come alongside parents facing the greatest challenges to help them build strong, positive relationships with their children. Because we know that making this one change can spark transformation that lasts a lifetime.
Read Change the Prescription: A New Approach to Mental Health and click here to find out more about Kids Matter’s parenting programmes.