Girls struggling with mental health in latest lockdown more than they were at start of pandemic

Some 53 per cent of girls said their mental health had been affected by the pandemic and latest lockdown, rising to three-quarters of girls aged 15-18, Girlguiding research found.

More than half (62 per cent) of this age group is also feeling more worried and anxious than they were during the first lockdown.

Overall, four in 10 girls aged four to 18 are feeling more lonely, sad, anxious and worried, more than half are feeling more bored and seven in 10 are feeling more fed-up and tired.

A third of older girls said being on social media is negatively affecting their sleep or mood.

More than half (59 per cent) said they are feeling under more pressure to be productive during lockdown, either by getting fit or learning something new.

Some 1,881 Girlguiding members across the UK completed the online survey between January 28 and February 3.

The polling found optimism for the future is rising as the vaccination programme rolls out, with 82 per cent of respondents feeling more hopeful.

Girls also said they now have a greater appreciation of nature and being outdoors, the NHS and care workers and of being at school.

A third of girls aged four to seven have been inspired to work in the NHS as a doctor or nurse, and a fifth of girls aged 15-18 have been inspired to pursue a career in science.

Angela Salt, Girlguiding chief executive, said: “It is clear that whilst girls feel more hopeful for the future, many continue to struggle with the effects of lockdown and social distancing on their mental health and wellbeing.

“Young women are keen to have their voices heard, so it is vital that Government listen to their concerns on decisions that will affect them, whilst also providing support for the youth clubs and groups that are playing an invaluable role helping young people at this time.

“We can’t wait to get back to offering girls and young women outdoor adventures as soon as restrictions allow.”

Girlguiding Advocate Isla Gerrard, 21, from Leeds, said: “It’s the isolation that’s really getting to young people.

“When the pandemic started last year there was almost a bit of novelty to it.

“But everyone’s missed so much - birthdays, Christmases, and religious festivals.

“It feels like there’s not quite light at the end of the tunnel yet.

“But young people have done us really proud.