A major review into mental health “dismisses the idea of a snowflake generation,” the lead author of the report has said. Speaking ahead of publication, Professor Peter Fonagy has insisted that “it’s harder to be young now”.

The government-commissioned review into ADHD, autism, and mental health is expected to be published imminently.

Fonagy told the BBC that there has been a real rise in mental health problems among young people and said he will call for support to be improved. He told the broadcaster that the NHS is “not fit for purpose” as too many young people are left on waiting lists for long periods for mental health support.

His report will conclude that there has been an increase in mental health problems among children and young people, with around one in four 16 to 24-year-olds affected.

“They are a generation that has real serious challenges that I would not wish to have had when I was their age. Adults have let them down. We’re the first generation that probably collectively feels we had a better life than our children will have. So, to the person who says it’s a snowflake generation, just try living 24 hours as a 16-year-old.”

He added: “I’m in awe of the way they have adjusted to an environment that is far more difficult than I ever had to face.”

Fonagy went on: “I want young people to hear that when they feel anxious, depressed or distressed, that it’s a real problem, but a problem we can do something about. When I needed help, I got it. I want everyone to have that chance.”

Loneliness Among Young People Has Risen, Says Fonagy 

The broadcaster also reported that Fonagy will highlight how loneliness among young people has increased over the last two decades, linking this to the rise of phone use and social media. He said he wanted to speak out ahead of the review due to the debate around ADHD and autism.

Alexa Knight, director of policy and influencing at Mental Health Foundation, said: “We welcome Professor Fonagy’s findings and hope the publication of the full report this week will put an end to false claims about young people.

“The young people’s mental health crisis is real. The focus must now shift from recognising the scale of the problem to delivering solutions that prevent poor mental health in the first place.

“That means acknowledging how we have failed this generation of young people and taking action to put it right.

“Every young person should have the building blocks of good mental health, including quality education, secure employment, adequate incomes, safe and affordable housing, and well-resourced communities.

“The challenge has been clearly identified and it’s time to implement solutions and prevent poor mental health before it starts.”