Teen Stress Today Can Leave Long‑Term Mental Wounds

Study Scope
Researchers tracked 4,714 students born in the early ’90s from London schools over many years.
Key Findings
Students who reported feeling squeezed by schoolwork at 15 did not see a mood rebound after exams.
Depression rates rose annually up to 22 years old, peaking at 16.
Each additional point on a nine‑point academic‑pressure scale at 15 increased the odds of self‑harm by 8 %—a risk that persisted through 24.
Early Onset of Stress
Academic stress can begin as early as 11–14, already predicting later depression.

Implications for Schools
The problem is not confined to final years; it starts sooner.
A “whole‑school” strategy is urged:
Reduce the number of exams.
Emphasize social and emotional learning over individual coping skills.
Context & Caveats
Data pre‑COVID‑19 and before recent policy changes, reflecting older school systems.
Observational study; causality cannot be proven but clear patterns emerge.
Bottom Line
Academic pressure is a modifiable risk factor for long‑term mental health issues. Changing school culture could curb depression and self‑harm among young people.