Young people are becoming increasingly concerned about mental health issues.

A survey carried out in August by Surrey Youth Focus showed more than 70 per cent of 220 people were worried about depression, self-image, self-harming and exam pressures. Bullying was seen as a common origin of these problems.

The most common concern was that young people did not know where to turn for help. One comment said: "There doesn't seem to be the right help and advice for my age group. The alternatives are drugs, alcohol or online networking which is boring and addictive and depressing."

Another said: "Within the surgery [there] should be a councillor office open 24/7 for people to just come in and talk."

Ideas for solutions included a county-wide zero-tolerance bullying policy, to use those who have overcome bullying as role models and to develop interactive programmes on mental health care similar to those on sexual health.

Cate Newnes-Smith, CEO of Surrey Youth Focus, said: "Surrey Youth Focus is always keen to hear and champion the views of young people, this report gives some clear messages about their views of health and social care services and we encourage these views to be listened to and acted upon."

Young people aged up to 19 comprise about a quarter of Surrey's population, with about 10 per cent experiencing some form of mental condition.

Mike Rich, CEO of Healthwatch Surrey, said: "With increased focus on emotional wellbeing and the reduction of bullying, schools would be able to cut the potential risk of young people turning to NHS services such as accident and emergency and mental health services, both now and in the future."