Children with speech issues risk poor mental health, charity warns

Children with speech issues are at risk of mental health problems like anxiety and depression, warns charity Speech and Language UK. A report states that nearly half of young people referred to mental health services also face serious speech challenges, affecting learning, verbal cues, and more. The charity calls for improved training for teachers and health professionals to identify and address language issues early on, emphasizing the link between speech difficulties and mental health struggles. The government aims to expand mental health support in schools by 2030, addressing the need for integrated care for children dealing with both communication and mental health issues.