new data from a extensive study in Spain reveals a concerning, yet nuanced, picture of adolescent mental health. The EmoChild project, surveying over 10,000 students, indicates that while some enhancement has been observed as 2024, nearly one in eight minors currently exhibit signs of significant emotional distress, and one in three are at risk. The study, released this month, provides critical insights into the factors impacting young peopleS wellbeing – from social media pressures to evolving family dynamics – and underscores the urgent need for proactive mental health support and early intervention strategies.
Child and adolescent mental health is a growing public health concern, with families, educators, and healthcare professionals reporting an increase in emotional problems at increasingly younger ages. Understanding the scope of these challenges is crucial for developing effective support systems and interventions.
A recent study, EmoChild, investigated the emotional well-being of children and adolescents in Spain through surveys of 10,831 students between the ages of 8 and 18, from schools across the country. Researchers supplemented the survey data with focus groups involving young people, families, and professionals to gain a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to mental health challenges and how they evolve over time.
Nearly One in Eight Children Show Signs of Significant Emotional Distress
Table of Contents
- Nearly One in Eight Children Show Signs of Significant Emotional Distress
- Is Youth Mental Health Declining?
- Digital Life: Social Media, Video Games, and Mental Wellbeing
- Eating Disorders and Body Image Concerns
- Suicidal Thoughts and Self-Harm
- Perspectives from Young People
- Looking Ahead: Key Takeaways from ‘EmoChild’
The most recent results, collected in fall 2025, indicate that 12% of children and adolescents exhibit symptoms of a clinically significant emotional problem. An additional 34% display symptoms that warrant monitoring, as these difficulties could worsen without timely detection and support. These findings highlight the need for proactive mental health screening and early intervention programs.
Depression and social anxiety are among the most frequently reported emotional problems, though generalized anxiety poses the greatest overall risk. Overall, one in eight minors in Spain is currently experiencing an emotional problem, and one in three is at risk of developing one.
Is Youth Mental Health Declining?
Data tracking from 2024 to 2025 shows a slight decrease in both clinical cases and those at risk, suggesting some young people who were struggling are experiencing improvement. However, the percentages remain high, underscoring the continued need for sustained preventative strategies. While the trend is encouraging, emotional difficulties remain common among this age group.
The EmoChild study also explored the role of technology in young people’s lives. Researchers found that video game use is common, with 39% of children and 34% of adolescents playing almost daily, and nearly 10% dedicating more than three hours a day to gaming.
Social media use is even more widespread, with 85% of children and nearly all adolescents using platforms like YouTube, WhatsApp, TikTok, and Instagram. Approximately 31% of adolescents and 9% of children spend over three hours each day on social media.
Beyond time spent online, the study identified emotional factors linked to social media use, including anxiety about being disconnected, feelings of inadequacy when comparing themselves to others, and the perception that their own lives are less exciting than those portrayed online. Intensive and emotionally driven social media use is a significant risk factor for mental health problems.
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Eating Disorders and Body Image Concerns
Problems related to eating and body image are particularly concerning. 5% of adolescents exhibit clinical symptoms, and 13% are considered at risk.
These difficulties are linked to the use of image-focused social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where constant comparison, the pursuit of “likes,” and using social media to regulate emotions can increase the risk of developing disordered eating behaviors.
Suicidal Thoughts and Self-Harm
The data regarding suicidal thoughts and self-harm require careful attention. 9% of adolescents have, at some point, felt that life is not worth living, 5% have seriously considered suicide, and 3% have attempted suicide. These figures, while slightly lower than in 2024, remain a significant cause for concern.
Around 5% of adolescents report having engaged in self-harm at some point in their lives. Notably, the age of onset for self-harm has decreased by approximately 18 months, now occurring before the age of 12.
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Perspectives from Young People
Qualitative research from the study provides valuable context. More than 500 children, adolescents, families, and professionals participated in nearly 60 focus groups. Participants consistently emphasized the central role of technology in their daily lives.
Concerns were raised about excessive use, social comparison, and feelings of isolation. Parental controls were seen as necessary but insufficient. Bullying remains a persistent problem, with many young people fearing reporting it and adolescents finding current strategies ineffective.
Friendship is a fundamental emotional support for children and adolescents, but also a vulnerable space. While young people value mutual respect and support, their relationships are influenced by dynamics of exclusion and the constant presence of technology.
Parenting styles are evolving, leading to generational clashes. Authoritarian approaches are becoming less effective, and children and adolescents are asking to be heard. Families report emotional exhaustion and a clear need for support, often hindered by a lack of time and a fast-paced lifestyle.
Looking Ahead: Key Takeaways from ‘EmoChild’
The EmoChild study delivers a clear message: prevention is essential. While a slight improvement has been observed, the high number of young people at risk of developing emotional problems underscores the importance of early intervention before issues become chronic.
Evidence-based emotional education is vital, as is strengthening family and school connections. Promoting healthy technology use from a young age is also a priority. Early detection is key. EmoChild provides solid data to inform decisions that protect the mental health of future generations.
