The latest Girlguiding Report 2025 highlights a stark reality: girls and young women in the UK are facing unprecedented pressures that are taking a serious toll on their mental health. Surveying over 2,500 girls aged 7–21, representative of girls across the country, the report reveals challenges that cannot be ignored.
Rising Sadness and Appearance Pressures
More than 1 in 4 girls aged 7–10 now feel sad most days, compared to just 1 in 10 in 2015. For older girls, body image is a major concern: 53% of 11–21-year-olds report that their body image or weight negatively impacts their mental health. Disturbingly, appearance pressures now affect girls as young as 7, with over a quarter of 7–10-year-olds having experienced mean comments about their bodies.
School Stress and Social Pressures
School remains a significant source of stress. 6 in 10 girls aged 11–16 say schoolwork is the factor most likely to harm their wellbeing, with nearly a third describing school as overwhelming. At the same time, girls continue to feel pressure to conform to society’s expectations, with 75% of 11–21-year-olds saying they don’t fit other people’s ideas of what a girl “should be.”
Marginalised Groups at Higher Risk
The report highlights that girls from marginalised groups, including LGBTQ+, disabled, and neurodivergent girls, are significantly more likely to experience sadness and mental health challenges.
The Positive Side: Resilience and Ambition
Despite these challenges, girls remain ambitious, resilient, and determined. They want to lead, connect with friends and family, spend time outdoors, and have their voices heard. 83% of 11–21-year-olds want to build their self-confidence, and 80% of 7–21-year-olds say spending time in nature helps them feel happy.
What Girls Are Asking For
The report makes it clear that girls want:
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Adults to listen and take their concerns seriously.
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More mental health support and trained staff in schools.
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Sexism and appearance pressures addressed.
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Safe, inclusive access to outdoor and girl-only spaces.
stem4’s Response
We echo Girlguiding’s call for urgent action. Every young person deserves timely support to help them navigate the challenges they face, grow in confidence, and thrive.
