In a recent Channel 4 documentary, it was revealed that a staggering number of young people in England and Wales are living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), with the majority of cases going untreated. An estimated 311,000 individuals aged 16 to 24 are affected by PTSD, primarily due to personal assault and violence (Channel 4, 2023). The documentary highlights a significant gap in treatment, with about 70% of these cases not receiving the necessary care. This lack of treatment is attributed to low awareness of PTSD symptoms and the challenges in diagnosing the condition. According to an analysis by Channel 4, incorporating research from King’s College London and data from the Office for National Statistics, the National Health Service (NHS) could save approximately £2.4 billion if more early intervention therapies were offered (Channel 4, 2023; King’s College London, 2023; Office for National Statistics, 2023).
Dr. Michael Duffy, a psychological trauma specialist from Queen’s University Belfast, emphasized the severe impact of untreated PTSD, which can become a chronic and highly disabling condition, drastically altering individuals’ lives (Duffy, 2023). The condition’s prevalence is notably higher in areas with high socioeconomic deprivation. The documentary, titled “Konan: Trapped in Trauma – Untold,” showcases the personal journey of the rapper Konan, who began experiencing PTSD symptoms, such as flashbacks, anxiety, paranoia, anger, and guilt, over a decade ago after a traumatic event involving a home invasion that led to the death of his stepfather (Channel 4, 2023).
Konan’s experience sheds light on the transformative power of therapy. He describes how therapy helped him identify the life events shaping his behavioral responses and recognize his triggers. Since participating in the show, he has continued therapy and expressed amazement at its impact, stating that therapy enabled him to process previously shut-off emotions, leading to a heightened emotional experience (Konan, 2023).
The documentary also explores the stories of other individuals who have experienced trauma, including a friend of Konan who alleviates night terrors through cannabis use and others who have faced violent environments, failed rescue attempts, and childhood abuse. These narratives illustrate the diverse and complex nature of trauma and its long-lasting effects.
Dr. Duffy points out the cultural stigma around emotional expression, particularly among men, which can hinder seeking and receiving help for PTSD (Duffy, 2023). Further, the documentary reveals that PTSD in young people is associated with higher rates of attempted suicide, self-harm, unemployment, and criminal behavior. The NHS estimated in 2021 that the lockdowns during the pandemic would result in an additional 230,000 new cases of PTSD (NHS England, 2021).
The documentary highlights a significant gender disparity in PTSD prevalence, with 13% of women aged 16-24 in England and Wales experiencing PTSD, a rate higher than that of British war veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan (Channel 4, 2023). This finding draws attention to the wide range of traumatic experiences leading to PTSD, beyond those typically associated with combat or military service.
Addressing this issue, an NHS England spokesperson emphasized that mental health services are treating more young people than ever, including through early intervention therapies (NHS England, 2023). Additionally, a spokesperson from the Department of Health and Social Care mentioned that mental health services are set to receive an additional £2.3 billion annually by 2024, which will allow 345,000 more children and young people to access NHS-funded mental health support (Department of Health and Social Care, 2023).