MORE than half of young people in South Lakeland have described their mental health as ‘poor’, according to a new survey conducted by an MP.

The online survey, from Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron, saw more than 1,600 South Lakes residents take part.

It found that more than seven in 10 people aged 19 or younger said that their mental health is worse than this time last year, with many referencing the stress of exams and their inability to plan for the future.

The group who say they are struggling with their mental health the most are males aged 20-29 with nearly 6 in 10 (59 per cent) describing their mental health as ‘poor’ and more than seven in 10 (72 per cent) describing their mental health as worse than this time last year, citing increased pressure at work, relationship breakups and not being able to see friends.

Mr Farron said: “These deeply alarming results are further evidence that the COVID-19 pandemic has created a devastating mental health crisis that is disproportionately hitting young people the hardest."