Troubled youngsters turn to the internet

MOST young people prefer to search the internet for help, rather than share their problems with family or friends.

Almost nine out of ten young people go online to solve their problems, according to a survey released yesterday.

Researchers found more than half (53 per cent) of the youngsters who used the internet said that the information they found made them more worried than they were initially.

Only a fifth (18 per cent) said they would double-check information they found online with a friend or parent.

The survey, which questioned 1,000 under-25s, was commissioned by Get Connected, a free confidential helpline.

Andrew McKnight, chairman of its board of trustees, said: "These results show that there is a need for young people to be able to verify the information that they find online.

"In many cases the vast amount of information available on the internet seems to exacerbate their personal worries further.

"As a society, we have become increasingly reliant on the internet as a first point of reference for a lot of information."

Mr McKnight added: "It is crucial that we make Britain's young people aware of exactly where they can turn to for dependable information and support. Get Connected is the safe gateway to these services."