Understanding the Mental Health Risks Facing Young Schoolchildren: What Parents Need to Know

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Understanding the Mental Health Risks Facing Young Schoolchildren: What Parents Need to Know

Recent research from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology highlights a concerning trend: children born late in the year face a higher risk of mental health issues. Kids born in October, November, or December are more likely to receive mental health diagnoses compared to their peers born earlier in the year. This applies to both boys and girls, regardless of whether they were born prematurely or at full term.

The study analyzed data from over one million children aged 4 to 17, all born between 1991 and 2012. Researchers aimed to investigate “relative age effects.” In simple terms, they wanted to see if younger students in a class—those born late in the year—are diagnosed with mental health disorders more frequently than older classmates.

“Our findings show that the youngest members of a school class are diagnosed with a mental illness more often than the oldest,” says Christine Strand Bachmann, a PhD research fellow at NTNU. She emphasizes that conditions like ADHD were particularly affected, with increased diagnosis rates ranging from 20-80 percent for younger students.

Other neuropsychiatric issues, such as difficulties in language, academic skills, and motor functions, showed similar trends. This raises questions about the educational system and its ability to support younger students who might act more immaturely.

Interestingly, premature girls exhibited even higher risks for emotional disorders, such as anxiety and depression, compared to their older classmates. The research underlines that those born prematurely are already more vulnerable to mental health challenges, and being born late in the year adds additional stress.

Experts like Bachmann believe that adjusting school start dates or providing additional resources could help better support these younger students. Education systems need to adapt to the diverse maturity levels in classrooms.

This study sheds light on a significant issue in public health education and child development, calling for changes that could enhance the well-being of vulnerable children. As the conversation continues, it’s crucial to remain aware of how age and developmental stages impact mental health.

The study was published in BMJ Paediatrics Open, and you can find more details in the [Norwegian University of Science and Technology](https://norwegianscitechnews.com/2025/07/youngest-in-class-at-higher-risk-of-mental-health-problems/) report and the [original journal article](https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjpo-2024-003186).



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Mental Health, Adolescents, Children, Research, Technology