Teenagers say anxiety and depression are a 'major problem' for their generation

The 13 to 17-year-olds also raised concerns about bullying, drugs and alcohol

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Depression and anxiety are seen as “major problems” among teenagers, according to a new study.

The survey of 920 US teens found that around 70 per cent of 13 to 17-year-olds believe mental health issues are a “major problem” for their generation, while 96 per cent said they were a “minor problem”.

By comparison, fewer teenagers voiced concerns over substance abuse, with six per cent saying they had felt pressure to do drugs, and four per cent admitting they had felt pressure to drink alcohol.

The majority of participants (90 per cent) also cited bullying as an issue for their age group.

In addition, the study, conducted by non-profit research organisation Pew, highlighted school as another pressure for teenagers, with 61 per cent saying they feel the need to get good grades.

Pressure to look good was another concern mentioned by 29 per cent of the study’s participants, followed by the need to fit in socially (28 per cent) and be good at sports (21 per cent).

The research also revealed that girls were more likely to say they wake up feeling nervous (36 per cent compared to 23 per cent of boys) and be excited about things at school (33 percent compared to 21 per cent of boys).

In addition to the gender differences, the survey also found a shift in concerns depending on the participants' socioeconomic background.

While mental health was raised as an issue across all groups, teens from lower income households were more likely (55 per cent) to say teen pregnancy was a concern in the area they live compared to those who lived in households with higher incomes (22 per cent).

The Pew report follows a recent study by the NHS that found one in eight children in England is living with a mental health problem.

According to the report, there has been an increase in conditions such as depression and anxiety, and behavioural or hyperactive disorders over the last decade.

Following concerns that social media could be impacting on children's sleep and wellbeing, senior medical advisors recently recommended parents ban phones from the bedroom at night and at the dinner table.

Their review of the potential harms of time spent online suggested a “precautionary approach” to children’s screen use, adding that while there have been studies linking excessive time on social media to increased mental health issues, it’s not clear that using the technology is inherently harmful.

For confidential support with mental health or suicidal feelings, you can contact The Samaritans on their free, 24-hour phone support by calling 116 123 or emailing jo@samaritans.org.