Coastal Mental Health Gap: Young People in Deprived English Seaside Towns Face Triple the Risk of Mental Illness
A new study reveals a stark disparity in mental health outcomes, with young people living in the most deprived coastal areas of England being three times more likely to develop mental health disorders compared to their inland counterparts. The research highlights a growing “coastal mental health gap,” leaving many young residents feeling isolated and unsupported.
Researchers conducting the extensive study found that cities like Tirming on the eastern coast, Blackpool, and Liverpool in the West are experiencing disproportionately high rates of mental illness among their youth. This troubling trend suggests a systemic issue impacting the well-being of an entire generation.
“We do not yet fully understand why these young people are being left behind, but it’s possible they are less likely to seek help, or that their voices are not being heard when they do,” explained Emily Murray, a researcher involved in the study.
Interestingly, the study revealed a contrasting trend for older residents. Elderly individuals living in these coastal communities were actually less likely – by roughly one-third – to experience undiagnosed mental health problems compared to their peers in similarly disadvantaged inland areas. This generational divide underscores the unique challenges facing young people in these regions.
The research, led by Claire Wix at the University of “Asex,” analyzed data from 28,000 adults across the United Kingdom collected between 2018 and 2023. Participants were assessed using a “psychological distress scale,” and deprivation levels were determined using official indicators from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. The study focused on individuals who exhibited signs of psychological distress but had not received a formal diagnosis.
This latest research builds upon findings from four years prior, when England’s chief medical officer, Chris Weii, first identified higher rates of mental health problems among young people in coastal areas. Subsequent research from the University of Asex and University College London, as well as reporting by The Guardian, further illuminated contributing factors.
These factors include high levels of poverty, low rates of higher education, and elevated crime rates within these communities. Murray emphasized that the economic and social challenges faced by coastal residents are central to understanding the disparity in mental health outcomes.
“Young people on the coast are likely living in areas with lower incomes, where families are more likely to rent from private landlords,” she stated. “They also often reside in geographically isolated areas, making it difficult to access economic opportunities and adequate healthcare.”
The lived experience of residents paints a vivid picture of these challenges. Celly Barsley, 21, a resident of Weston Supermere, described a town where tourism often takes precedence over the needs of local communities. “The focus is heavily on making the waterfront beautiful for tourists, but when you venture into residential areas, you find decay, shuttered shops, and widespread mold in homes,” she said.
Researchers from the London College have been engaging with local policymakers and practitioners to identify potential solutions. A common theme emerged: the need for increased support for young people and a focus on the specific needs and aspirations of the local population.
Many advocates stressed the importance of long-term, sustainable funding for youth services and community projects, as well as investment in training and retaining qualified staff. Crucially, they emphasized the need to direct resources specifically towards young people in coastal areas.
Addressing the “coastal mental health gap” will require a multifaceted approach that tackles the underlying economic and social inequalities plaguing these communities, ensuring that young people have access to the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
