The facts

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In a recent survey, the Office of National Statistics found that 10% of all 5-15-year-olds were suffering from a mental disorder. That's half a million youngsters.

The children's mental health charity, Young Minds, estimates that if all children aged 16 and under were included in the survey the figure would rise to 1 million. And half of these have what is classed as an emotional disorder, depression or anxiety.

Why is it on the increase?

The reasons for depression are often complex but your start in life can make a difference.

Young Minds Director Peter Wilson says: 'Research shows poor parenting in the earliest weeks of life can have lasting effects on a child's mental health. Post-natal depression and lack of support can prevent mothers from establishing good relationships with their babies.'

That said, as long as children get support and nurturing at some point, they can be helped.

Bereavement, bullying, exam stress, parents' arguments and separation and parental mental health problems can all trigger depression in a child.