Why Rich Kids Are More Likely To Have Mental Health Problems

The opportunity to ride in private jets, wear 18k solid gold Rolexes, and live in lavish homes is enough to make people jealous of privileged youth who flaunt their lives on social media. Because of the luxurious lifestyle they lead, these rich children may seem like they have no care in the world. However, behind the smiles and wealth, there are serious behavioural, emotional, and social problems. According to Labour peer David Puttnam, children of affluent parents may be as disadvantaged and distressed as low-income families. Here is why mental health problems are common among children of the super rich.

The Growing Problem With Rich Children

Puttnam explains that there are different types of deprivation. Whereas children in low-income families may be deprived of financial resources, wealthy children have low mental well-being. In an interview, he noted that “It's a mistake to think that deprivation exists only with the very poorest in society. Many people will find this a totally counter-intuitive ‘first world’ problem - but check with the principals of many of our most expensive schools and most desirable universities, and you will hear the same story: mental wellbeing is a significant and growing problem." Many wealthy children suffer from the pressure of having parents who have planned their lives from day one. As a result, they often feel unhappy and isolated and are at risk for developing depression, anxiety, and substance abuse problems.

The Most Overlooked Health Challenge

Youth mental health is one of the most overlooked medical issues today. In fact, the prevalence of psychological problems in teens is higher than the prevalence of physical health problems, such as diabetes and asthma. Researchers have also discovered that rates of self-harm, neuroses, drug abuse, and eating disorders are soaring among rich teenagers. If not treated early and effectively, mental health issues in youth can lead to serious illnesses. American psychology professor Suniya Luthar notes that youth whose parents earn more than £100,000 a year are more likely to suffer from severe mental illness. This is because of the lack of direction, social pressure to succeed, and unrealistic expectations that are placed on them. Being able to do whatever they want without proper guidance makes them vulnerable to making the wrong decisions in life.