At least 30 million Chinese children under the age of 17 suffer emotional or behavioral problems, says a report issued by the China National Children Center on Friday.

The report says mental problems among the country's youth become more serious as they get older. "Students at grade three in high schools have more mental and behavioral problems than those at grade two," the report says, quoting a survey.

With 346 million people aged under 17, China has the world's largest population of children. It is also the largest youth population in the country's history.

Experts pointed out that given the rapid social and economic development of China, Chinese young people are facing unprecedented temptations and challenges.

A recent survey by China's Center for Disease Control and Prevention said that 17.4 percent of 9,915 sampled middle school students had "seriously considered" committing suicide and 8.2 percent had made suicide plans.

Research shows that children in rural areas seem to have more mental problems than those living in the city, according to the report.

A 2006 survey conducted by the Harbin Medical University showed that 19.23 percent of primary and middle school students sampled have been diagnosed with depression, while the figure for rural students is 32.5 percent.

“Mental problems have become a key factor affecting the health of China's young people, and the situation is worsening," said Cong Zhongxiao, deputy director of the center.

"Avoiding risks while growing up, preventing illegal behavior and improving mental health are the key challenges for Chinese youth," Cong said.

The report points out that most students have never sought help for their depression or other mental problems. The report urges governments, schools and civil affairs organizations to pay more attention to the mental health of teenagers and help prevent and ease their psychological problems.

(Xinhua News Agency December 11, 2006)