The stresses and anxieties that exist in today's high-speed, high-pressure society affect children more than many people realise.

While adults with mental health difficulties may be better at articulating their problems, it can be more difficult to get to the root of a child's emotional struggles.

Often, behavioural patterns that are labelled 'naughty' - including rudeness, truancy and aggression - can be ways in which a child expresses mental distress.

However difficult the challenge may be and whatever funding challenges may exist, society has a duty to help children with mental health problems who struggle to be heard.

Today, we are reporting that there are an estimated 8,500 children aged between five and 15 with diagnosable mental health disorders in Bradford - a figure that could rise to 17,000 if lower level emotional or behavioural difficulties are taken into account.

In that context, it's crucial that child mental health services are properly funded, well-staffed and responsive to demand.

A loving parent or guardian can do their best to help a child who is struggling to be mentally healthy but, if the problem is complex and persistent, it's essential that expert support is available swiftly.

The fact that 24 Bradford youngsters who found themselves in such circumstances had to wait between six and ten weeks to be seen by the child and adolescent mental health service is concerning. When needed, expert intervention should be quick if it is to have a chance of being effective.

This is too big an issue to ignore. The way children are supported today undoubtedly has an impact in shaping our society in the future.